Material Culture

Enamelled Cyprus glass decanter by Fritz Heckert depicting a neo-classical figure with polychrome decoration, Bohemia, late 19th century

Fritz Heckert, a late 19th-century Bohemian glass factory, specialized in enamelled neo-classical and Altdeutsches glassware, merging historical motifs with innovative craftsmanship for international markets.Read More →

Corradino d’Ascanio, an Italian aeronautical engineer, is celebrated for his contributions to helicopter research and the design of the iconic Vespa scooter. His work merged advanced engineering with everyday mobility, shaping post-war Italian identity. Despite his focus on aviation, the Vespa’s global success transformed social norms and embodied Italy’s cultural renewal.Read More →