Atelier Zanolli – Fabrics, Fashion, Craft, 1905–1939

Silk fabrics sprayed with an airbrush, opulently embroidered cushions, colorful objects made of beads or wood: the estate of the Zanolli family, which is preserved in the Museum, is a rare treasure.

Under the label Atelier Zanolli a fantastical world full of graceful and cheerful products was created in Zurich. The pieces reflect cultural and stylistic influences from the avant-garde to the intellectual defense of the nation. Although conditions during this epoch were sometimes difficult, the Zanollis always succeeded in combining their work on commissions for important textile firms and department stores with their aim for artistic self-fulfillment. The exhibition uses objects designed by the Zanollis with an enormous love of detail to recount the eventful story of this family business.