Alessi - Alessandro Mendini

Designed in 2003 by Alessandro Mendini as a playful self-portrait of its creator, the Alessandro M. corkscrew was conceived as the male counterpart to the iconic Anna G. "The corkscrew object has movement and sound. During use it delivers a performance. It represents a character, hence its human figure," Mendini once explained of the anthropomorphic duo. Alessandro M. was given his own distinct personality: "a bit funny, he twists in on himself [...] he is vain, he likes to change clothes often, depending on the occasion: for parties, at work, at the theater, in costume, traveling, in the country, for ceremonies..." Ever since, this transforming corkscrew has appeared in new and original guises over the years. This special "Twirl" Capsule Edition 2026 dresses Alessandro M. in a brand-new graphic language, created by Viennese fashion designer Arthur Arbesser. Twirl began with a simple idea: imagining the movement of a metal corkscrew as it enters the cork, and the line this motion generates. That precise, mechanical gesture is translated into a vortex of colored stripes flowing seamlessly over Alessandro M.'s clothes, conveying a feeling of perpetual motion, rotation, rhythm, and lightness. As Arbesser describes it: "Stripes, in all their forms, have always been one of my favourite motifs [...] I am particularly drawn to them in unexpected, vibrant colors, as they consistently bring both structure and energy to every design." Beyond its playful design, this edition also marks a small sustainable revolution: Alessandro M. Twirl is made using AlkiPaper, an innovative biocomposite derived from food-grade paper, completely free of petroleum derivatives, combined with chrome-plated zamak and a rolled steel lever mechanism. The corkscrew is launched as a capsule edition, a special, non-numbered series available exclusively for a limited period, with a laser engraving on the collar indicating the author and year of production. With his signature smiling face, bowler hat and kinetic striped outfit, Alessandro M. "Twirl" remains not only a functional corkscrew but also a striking collectible object, where playfulness meets haute couture. Use: Place the corkscrew on the neck of the bottle, screw the corkscrew head clockwise until the cork is completely extracted from the bottle. Remove the cork from the steel worm by turning the head counterclockwise. Condition: This Alessandro M. "Twirl" edition is in new and unused condition, complete with original packaging. This capsule-edition corkscrew was produced for a limited period only. Dimensions: Ø 6 cm x 21 cm. Designers: Alessandro Mendini (1931 - 2019), the visionary behind this masterpiece, was a true luminary in the design world. His architectural background and editorial contributions shaped the landscape of Italian, postmodern, and radical design, injecting new "values" and "sensibilities" that challenged the dominance of commercialism and functionalism. Recognized with prestigious international awards, including the Compasso d'Oro and the European Prize for Architecture, Mendini's impact on the design industry is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire and push boundaries. Born in Vienna, Arthur Arbesser was deeply immersed in the city’s history and culture as he grew up. After graduating from London’s Central Saint Martins College he moved to Milan to work for a leading fashion house for several years. Subsequent to launching his label and being a finalist of the 2015 LVMH prize, he quickly became recognized for his graphic aesthetics and personal design language. Aside from his namesake label, Arbesser is a creative consultant and also works on numerous collaborations from furniture to product design. Costume design for ballet and opera complete his creative world.

Estimation:€10

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