The allure of Italy, with its rich cultural tapestry and deep-seated traditions, has long captivated those seeking an elevated lifestyle. For jewellery designer Bec Astley Clarke MBE, this allure manifested as a profound yearning, a desire that blossomed into The Italian Collector, a Florence-based emporium dedicated to the exquisite artistry of Italian antiques. Astley Clarke’s curated collections, particularly her "aperitivo" range, are more than mere objects; they are sentient vessels that evoke the very essence of the Italian cocktail hour, a ritual deeply ingrained in the nation’s daily rhythm. From the vibrant hues of hand-blown Murano glass coupes that shimmer with captured light, to the mid-century elegance of polished cocktail shakers, and the delicate silver bowls designed to cradle olives and crisps, each piece tells a story of craftsmanship, history, and the unhurried pleasure of shared moments. Astley Clarke, who traded the bustling pace of London for the serene landscapes of Umbria with her young family fifteen years ago in pursuit of "adventure," now divides her time between the rolling hills of central Italy and the Renaissance city of Florence. Her by-appointment bottega, or gallery, in Florence serves as a sanctuary for these meticulously sourced treasures. "The aperitivo is such an important part of living in Italy; it’s ingrained in every day life," she remarks, her voice resonating with a deep appreciation for her adopted homeland. "There are so many beautiful vintage pieces to be found, which have a kind of craftsmanship, a beauty to them, I think you rarely see today." This sentiment underscores the core philosophy of The Italian Collector: to rescue and celebrate the enduring quality and aesthetic sophistication of Italian design from bygone eras. The thrill of the hunt for these exceptional pieces is an integral part of Astley Clarke’s passion. Her quest takes her across the length and breadth of Italy, from the labyrinthine alleys of sprawling flea markets and the hushed halls of auction houses to the dusty interiors of forgotten warehouses and the opulent rooms of private residences. "A contact might tell me so-and-so is selling their palazzo, you should go and take a look, or I’ve driven past an old cinema that’s being closed down or a bar where all the builders are outside and all of a sudden there are these amazing old Martini signs being brought out," she recounts, her eyes alight with the memory of discovery. "I really love the sourcing and also telling the story of where we found each piece." This narrative element adds a profound layer of authenticity and emotional resonance to each acquisition, transforming it from a mere decorative item into a tangible piece of history. A particular specialization within The Italian Collector’s repertoire is hand-blown Murano glass. This artisanal tradition, originating from the island of Murano near Venice, has been a cornerstone of Italian glassmaking for centuries, renowned for its intricate techniques and dazzling artistry. Astley Clarke’s offerings span a diverse range of drinking vessels, elegant bowls, decorative vases, and sophisticated decanters, each bearing the unique imprint of the artisan’s hand. "My most amazing find this year were these unbelievable hand-blown glasses from the 1920s, ’30s, ’40s, and ’50s, in an old warehouse in Murano," she shares with palpable excitement. "Each one had these incredible stems, that were almost jewel-like. And glass that’s incredibly fine, in these quite muted colours – pale blue, mauve, champagne, rose – that you just don’t find in modern glassware. Pink glass, in particular, is so rare these days that when I find it I often keep it." The rarity of these specific hues, especially the delicate pink, speaks to the evolving aesthetic preferences in glassware production and the enduring appeal of vintage palettes. These exquisite glasses are often sold as "unmatched" or "harlequin" sets of eight, encouraging a playful and eclectic approach to table setting. At the time of writing, a few of these coveted sets remained available online, testament to their immediate appeal and desirability. The pursuit of the perfect aperitivo experience extends to the furniture that facilitates it. Astley Clarke is perpetually on the lookout for vintage drinks trolleys, with a particular fondness for the iconic 1960s Cesare Lacca designs. These trolleys are celebrated for their exquisite craftsmanship, featuring impeccably formed brass accents, beautifully carved wood, and a harmonious symmetry that epitomizes mid-century Italian design. "They’re very popular," she confirms. "At the bottega in Florence we always have a drinks trolley set up with an ice bucket, some aperitivo glasses, and a few little silver bowls for snacks." The presence of such a trolley within her gallery serves not only as a display piece but also as an invitation to envision the convivial atmosphere it can create within a home. Further enriching the collection, Astley Clarke champions the work of 1960s modernist silversmith Lino Sabattini. His designs, often characterized by their clean lines and geometric precision, embody the sophisticated minimalism of the mid-century modern aesthetic. "His designs are often quite clean and geometric; that pared-back mid-century modern design is something he does really, really well," she observes, highlighting his sleek silver "leaf" bowls and a particularly striking, minimalist cylindrical aperitivo set. This set, featuring a teak-and-silver jug and matching cups, exemplifies Sabattini’s ability to blend natural materials with refined metallic forms. The allure of iconic brand collaborations also features prominently in Astley Clarke’s discerning eye. She expresses a particular enthusiasm for 1970s Gucci glasses, distinguished by their signature green and red Gucci band and elegant silver base. "They’re very Milano chic," she states, referring to their association with the stylish Milanese aesthetic. "Whenever I see a set I snap it up because they are becoming more sought-after every year." This growing demand reflects a broader trend of renewed interest in vintage designer homewares. Complementing these, the collection also boasts exceptional sets of cobalt blue Ercole Barovier glasses from the 1920s, showcasing the enduring legacy of this renowned Murano glass master. For those moments of quiet contemplation or convivial conversation over coffee, Astley Clarke favors vintage ceramic espresso cups by Richard Ginori, a brand synonymous with Italian porcelain excellence for centuries. The visual landscape of the aperitivo is further enhanced by vintage advertising art. Astley Clarke’s keen eye has unearthed a remarkable collection of 1920s drinks advertising lithographs. Among these treasures is a monumental Campari poster by Leonetto Cappiello, created in 1921. Measuring over 20 square feet, this vibrant and iconic artwork would undoubtedly serve as a striking centerpiece in any dedicated home bar, encapsulating the spirit of an era when advertising was an art form in itself. The preservation and presentation of such pieces underscore Astley Clarke’s commitment to curating not just objects, but entire experiences. In an era where almost any collectible can be discovered with a few clicks, The Italian Collector distinguishes itself through its tightly curated edit, preserving the authentic thrill of the chase. Astley Clarke’s selection process is intuitive and deeply personal. "It’s hard to say exactly what I’m looking for in a piece, but I always say, when I see it, it’s got to be a full-body ‘yes,’" she confesses. "Because if I don’t sell a piece, I’ve got to be able to keep it. So I must completely love it. And that, I suppose, is why ultimately, everything sells." This profound personal connection to each item ensures that every piece offered by The Italian Collector is not only aesthetically exceptional but also imbued with a genuine passion that resonates with discerning buyers. The very concept of the aperitivo is deeply woven into the fabric of Italian social life, a cherished ritual that signals the transition from the workday to leisure. Astley Clarke’s personal appreciation for this tradition is evident in her own habits and preferences. "In Florence, going for an aperitivo after work is very common, it’s very civilized. We have aperitivi the whole time," she enthuses. Her preferred libation for this occasion is a Negroni sbagliato – a delightful variation on the classic Negroni, substituting prosecco for gin, resulting in a lighter, effervescent profile. Alternatively, a crisp glass of Vermentino, a popular white wine from Sardinia and Liguria, paired with San Carlo crisps, which she declares "are the best!", offers a simple yet satisfying indulgence. Her curated selection of aperitivo haunts in Florence further illuminates her refined taste and appreciation for authentic Italian experiences. For a "grown-up aperitivo," she recommends Procacci, a venerable establishment in the Centro Storico that has been a Florentine institution since 1885. Its historic ambiance and classic offerings provide an unparalleled setting for enjoying a pre-dinner drink. La Loggia, perched atop the Piazzale Michelangelo, offers a different, yet equally compelling, experience, boasting breathtaking panoramic views of the city – a perfect backdrop for a leisurely aperitivo. "Often, though, it’s at that simple little neighbourhood bar where you have the nicest time," she laughs, revealing a preference for the unpretentious charm of local establishments. L’Enoteca dei 4 Leoni, situated near her gallery, is a favored spot for a chilled glass of white wine and a selection of crisps, embodying the simple pleasures that define the Italian aperitivo. Adding to the convivial atmosphere, The Italian Collector’s bottega itself features a roof terrace, often utilized for entertaining, further blurring the lines between curated collection and lived experience. This dedication to capturing and sharing the spirit of the Italian aperitivo, from the exquisite objects that facilitate it to the timeless traditions it embodies, solidifies The Italian Collector’s position as a purveyor of not just antiques, but of a lifestyle. Post navigation Is the World’s Most Famous Biohacker Questioning the Limits of Longevity?
