Persol sponsors the Strega Prize with two bespoke pairs of glasses

The fashion world’s fascination with literature is nothing new: its association with the Strega Prize – which this year celebrates its 80th anniversary – had already taken shape two years ago with the first final evening, during which the five finalists were dressed by five different brands: Dior, Gucci, Missoni, Etro and Lardini. However, this is the first time the prize has been associated with a sponsor from the fashion world: Persol, a brand that has been part of the EssilorLuxottica group since 1995 but whose origins date back to 1917, and which has a strong connection with visual culture and cinema, thanks in part to iconic models such as the 649 and the 714, made famous by figures such as Marcello Mastroianni and Steve McQueen.

Persol has created two models from the new Riviera collection, featuring a special, bespoke laser-engraved finish: the first, PO8001S, was presented on 3 June in Benevento to all six finalists at the announcement of the shortlist, whilst the second model, 0PO8002S, developed as an exclusive, bespoke version, was presented in Rome to the winner, Michele Mari along with the book *I convitati di pietra*, published by Einaudi.

The laser-engraved personalisation, which makes each piece unique, includes a special engraving on the inside of the stem featuring the logo commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Premio Strega, further emphasising the symbolic value of the initiative.

Persol’s commitment to supporting the Strega Prize has also extended to the creation of the exhibition “One, Five, Twelve. Eighty Years of the Strega Prize”, dedicated to the prize’s 80th anniversary. The exhibition, which runs until 30 August at the MACRO museum in Rome, is a fascinating journey through books, artefacts and images (curated by Maria Luisa Frisa and Mario Lupano) that traces the prize’s long and rich history. The exhibition is organised by the Department of Culture of Roma Capitale and Azienda Speciale Palaexpo, and produced in collaboration with BPER Banca and the National Chamber of Italian Fashion.