Enzo Mari (1932–2020) was a renowned Italian designer known for his radical, thoughtful approach to design, emphasising sustainability, democratisation, and the essential qualities of materials.
While much of his celebrated work involved wood, metal, and marble, Mari also created notable objects in travertine, a porous limestone often used in Italian architecture and sculpture.
image 1 - Enzo Mari, travertine sculptures of giraffes seen among more period correct home decor.
Travertine and Marble display objects in our showroom
Lumini Collections showroom has on display an amazing set of travertine and marble objects from Italy.
We have assembled this collection to give you the chance of complementing your interior with some of the most iconic pieces ever made in this style .
Marble and travertine are natural stones that have played a significant role in shaping Rome’s architectural heritage.
Landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain stand as enduring testaments to the elegance, strength, and luxury these materials represent.
Now, you have the opportunity to bring a piece of this timeless Italian tradition into your home with an original design classic from the 1960s and 1970s.
Arguably, the material used to manufacture Enzo Mari’s work might have come from the same quarry where the pieces for the Colosseum came from, almost two thousands years ago.
image 2 - Enzo Mari, travertine sculpture of a rhino, available at Lumini Collections Showroom.
Travertine in Mari’s Work
Mari’s engagement with travertine is exemplified by his sculptural objects, such as animal figures.
One example is a elephant sculpture, cherished for its tactile, porous travertine stone, which carries a sense of history and materiality.
These pieces reflect Mari’s philosophy of connecting users with the intrinsic qualities of materials and the process of making.
image 3 - Enzo Mari.
In the 1970s, Mari also designed mid-century modern travertine fish sculptures, which are now considered collectible objects.
These works highlight his ability to distill form to its essence, using the natural texture and color of travertine to enhance the visual and tactile experience.
Material Philosophy
Mari’s use of travertine fits within his broader material experimentation, which included marble, brass, and plastic. He was interested in how industrial processes could transform traditional materials, making them more accessible and stripping away their exclusivity.
With marble, for instance, Mari’s Paros series shifted production from artisanal to industrial, democratising the material and its forms.
His travertine works similarly emphasise honesty, simplicity, and a direct relationship between object, material, and user.
Legacy
Mari’s travertine objects are a testament to his enduring belief in the importance of material integrity and user engagement.
Whether through playful animal sculptures or minimalist forms, he used travertine to invite touch, contemplation, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the act of making.
In summary, Enzo Mari’s work with travertine, though less prolific than his wood or metal designs, embodies his core philosophy: a reverence for materials, a commitment to sustainability, and a drive to make design accessible and meaningful.
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