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IN 1883 the brothers Fausto and Giuseppe Bagatti Valsecchi, of noble
descent, inaugurated the new façade
of their palazzo, tucked between Via Santo Spirito and Via Gesù, in
the center
of Milan. Their plan to turn it into a home inspired by the dwelling-places
of the 16th century Lombard aristocracy had thus come to fruition. And in
keeping with their intent, the house was furnished--inside and out--with Renaissance
artefacts and mottoes in Italian and Latin.
EVERY ROOM was embellished with beautifully made household items,
finest-quality furnishings and works of art. But the interiors
were conceived first and foremost as a place to live in, and the age-old
domestic objects accumulated by these two zealous collectors were in fact
put into normal everyday use.
FAUSTO AND GIUSEPPE were both actively involved in plans for the building
and its splendour is a tribute to their tireless efforts. However, their
dedication to collecting and to interior design - an area where, for
non-professionals,
they showed exceptional talent - did not distract them from their commitments
as members of the best Milanese
society. They participated to the full in its events and rituals; they
were known particularly for their pioneering involvement in sport, with a
passionate interest in - among other things - cycling and ballooning.
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