Zani & Zani UNI / Unitre cutlery 1971 by Carla Nencioni and Armando Moleri

Iconic Zani & Zani UNI / Unitre cutlery set, designed in 1971 by Carla Nencioni and Armando Moleri. The system is based on a refined industrial logic: the knife is milled from a solid stainless-steel rod, while the fork and spoon are formed from semi-cylindrical stainless-steel tubing. Their dished profiles allow all three pieces to nest perfectly together in a minimal configuration.

The fork and spoon align along the cylindrical knife handle and the set is held together by a black synthetic sheath originally intended for protection and travel. This nesting principle is one of the defining characteristics of the UNI series.

I offer glossy and matte versions. The glossy sets are the most difficult to find in mint condition; the matte versions have been professionally re-polished in a workshop. Most sets are unused or show only light traces of handling consistent with careful storage.

Carla Nencioni and Armando Moleri met at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Milan, where they were both students of the painter Achille Funi. Since 1965 they have collaborated on the design of household objects, specialising in stainless steel. In later years they also worked with glass for domestic use, creating a number of vessels and glass pieces.

– Designers / Artist: Carla Nencioni and Armando Moleri
– Made in Italy by Zani & Zani, Toscolano Maderno (Brescia)
– Design year: 1970
– Production period: approx. 1971-1978
– Material: stainless steel 18/10
– Handle / sheath: synthetic plastic
– Knife handle: cylindrical stainless steel, 18 cm
– Fork: semicircular stainless-steel tube, 18 cm
– Spoon: semicircular stainless-steel tube, 18 cm

A timeless example of Italian industrial design, combining technical inventiveness with a clear and minimal aesthetic.