Ever since the creation of the “Fatman” cake-stand/character in 2012, Wanders had been thinking about doing a collection of objects that would be humorous and surprising, particularly iconic, designed with the intention of evoking the unique feeling of experiencing a circus performance under the big top. The main body of the “Circus” collection is coloured stainless steel (recuperating a special production process initiated by Alessi in the 80s) and includes trays, placemats, a bottle holder, wine cooler and ice bucket. The set is rounded out with a salad serving bowl, bowls, cups and mugs in bone china as well as containers in tin and glass. Each piece is characterised by round and geometric decorations and by circles in the form of the strips or conical shapes in white, black, yellow, red and gold reminiscent of the symbols historically associated with the circus and that evoke the feelings of wonder and fun when, as children, we found ourselves enthralled for the first time by the magic of the towering circus tent.
The “Circus” Collection Officina Alessi
In Wanders’s imagination, five classic household utensils have come to life as theme sculptures destined to become family heirlooms, to be collected and passed on from generation to generation. The five objects are predominantly made of stainless steel with a few details in different materials. Their method of production — halfway between industrial production and craftsmanship — highlights one of the features most appreciated about Alessi in today’s world. The collection is produced in a limited edition of 999 pieces and opens up (or better, consolidates) a new market sector for us.
“The circus is filled with wonderful personas that all play their small part in the spectacle. Each character in this iconic series surprises with its own personality and specific historical carnival relevance to be treasured.” “Candyman” (Alberto): he collects sweets in his hat and are offered on his tongue. “Strongman” (Marcello): he is a nut cracker able to make the strong decisions. “The Jester” (Gilberto): he is a corkscrew exploding with colours as he jumps up and down opening bottles. “Ringleader” (Massimo): a bell symbolizing the ringmaster of the circus, being transported by a monkey chasing a banana. “Ballerina” (Valentina): she balances atop a music box, rotating on a ball to avoid a small, scary mouse.
“The Jester” (Gilberto)
Obsessed by opening bottles, wine-drunk joker, Gilberto, expresses himself not only with words but with sounds in general. Always laughing, shouting, jumping, maniacally gesturing, Gilberto does anything to get in the spotlight. Constantly corking up bottles with his spinning dance moves, more than once Gilberto has accidentally screwed himself stuck into different random objects. He has never been stuck for very long though, as there are always people around to unscrew him – and the party continues!
“Strongman” (Marcello)
Growing up stomping grapes in his parents’ vineyard, Marcello soon understood his love for demolition. As his muscles grew bigger, female attention grew more intense and Marcello’s confidence escalated. Going from stomping grapes to squeezing olives to hardcore nutcracking, Marcello’s shaped oily body is the dream of many women. They should beware, Marcello is not only good at breaking nuts but also hearts.
“Ballerina” (Valentina)
A great belly dancer, but after getting discovered at a street performance by a well-known choreographer, Valentina fell in love with the gracious postures and the spinning movements of ballet. This little mouse had never seen a more promising ballerina and decided to dedicate all of his time to make her the best. Now, two years later, they are seen together on red carpets all over the world, not only as colleagues but as the most shining couple of today.
“Ringleader” (Massimo)
With a never-ending bell sound in his head no one can blame Massimo for being a bit mad. From his high seat he sings out orders with his resonating voice as he is chauffeured around by his hungry little monkey. In Massimo’s head, he’s still the leader and everyone lets him believe so, but in fact, he lost that position a long time ago when the bell sound took over his mind. Luckily, Massimo’s big belly is the basis of a beautifully strong voice so no one sees a reason to burst his bubble. Massimo can happily keep collecting applauses in front of a full audience.
“Candyman” (Alberto)
A hyper active sugar addict, Alberto stays in control only when his mouth is filled with sweets. As he travels the world, he collects sweet treats in his hat as tasty memories. Once, Alberto fell in love with a pretty Belgian praline, but as his addiction grew stronger than his love, the sweet piece of chocolate very soon ended up in his stomach. He has still not forgiven himself for his terrible action but will remember the delicious taste for eternity.
For more details please call Alessi Bonifacio Global City (0917) 867 1720, Alessi Cebu (0917) 314 3942 and Conlins Elements Greenbelts 5 (0917) 867 1720 or you may send an email to [email protected].
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