Potato Tray by George Sowden for Memphis Milano

Potato is a tray, but only just. Formed in glazed ceramic, its shallow, rounded body reads as composed and self-contained, while two slim metal handles interrupt the calm with deliberate contrast. It holds things, yes—but more convincingly, it holds attention.

Designed in 1985 by George J. Sowden, the piece reflects his interest in clarity of form paired with subtle disruption. Trained as an architect and shaped by Milan's design culture, Sowden often worked at the edge between usefulness and expression. Here, restraint and personality sit in careful balance.

Produced by Memphis Milano, Potato belongs to a moment when domestic objects were allowed to question their own seriousness. Part of a movement that challenged modernist austerity with colour, irony and emotion, it remains quietly radical—an everyday object that refuses to fade politely into the background.

• Designer: George J. Sowden
• Maker: Memphis Milano
  
• Material: ceramic, metal, wood
• Origin: Italy
• Design period: 1980s
• Production period: 2020s
  
• Measurements: L13 x W12.5 x H3.5 in / L32.5 x W31.5 x H8.5 cm
• Condition: good vintage condition with minor traces of use
  

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