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Giorgio Maffei, Renowned Collector and Dealer of Rare Art Books, Dies in Turin

other · 2026-05-05

Giorgio Maffei, a distinguished collector and dealer of rare 20th-century art books, has died in Turin. He was known for his expertise in artist publications, including magazines, books, invitations, and ephemera. Maffei authored essential volumes on understudied topics, such as books on Munari, Kaprow, Sottsass's magazines, and Arte Povera. His collection included works by Fontana, Warhol, Penone, Boetti, and Cattelan. He also developed a recent interest in vinyl records and their covers. Maffei ran his studio in Turin with his wife Paola, who collaborated with him in recent years. He taught at Brera and presented his collection at the Pinacoteca Agnelli. Angela Madesani wrote a tribute recalling his sharp wit, deep knowledge, and passion for discovery. Maffei's death marks the loss of a vibrant intelligence and a key reference in the art world.

Key facts

  • Giorgio Maffei died in Turin.
  • He was a collector and dealer of rare 20th-century art books.
  • He authored essential volumes on artist publications.
  • His collection included works by Munari, Kaprow, Sottsass, Fontana, Warhol, Penone, Boetti, and Cattelan.
  • He had a recent interest in vinyl records and their covers.
  • He worked with his wife Paola in recent years.
  • He taught at Brera and presented at Pinacoteca Agnelli.
  • Angela Madesani wrote a tribute.

Entities

Artists

  • Giorgio Maffei
  • Angela Madesani
  • Bruno Munari
  • Allan Kaprow
  • Ettore Sottsass
  • Lucio Fontana
  • Andy Warhol
  • Giuseppe Penone
  • Alighiero Boetti
  • Maurizio Cattelan

Institutions

  • Artribune
  • Brera
  • Pinacoteca Agnelli
  • Edizioni del Cavallino

Locations

  • Turin
  • Italy

Sources