original Alessi samovar set in 925 silver – designed by Eliel Saarinen

This rare Alessi samovar set was produced after a design by the Finnish architect and designer Eliel Saarinen dating from 1934. The edition was manufactured in Italy by Alessi in cooperation with the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Detroit as a strictly limited edition crafted from solid 925 silver.

The design combines the architectural clarity of early modernism with an almost futuristic formal language. Characteristic features include the spherical bodies, stepped base elements and the highly sculptural handles and pouring elements. Especially the samovar itself develops a remarkable spatial presence through its monumental silhouette and reflective silver surface.

The ensemble consists of the samovar, sugar bowl, milk jug and the original tray. All elements are hallmarked and numbered 20 of only 99 examples produced. This makes the present set part of one of the earliest productions of the edition.

According to the previous owner, the set was personally purchased at an Alessi flagship store near Lake Maggiore during the late 1980s and has remained unused ever since.

Silver objects of this kind exemplify the intensive engagement of Italian manufacturers with historical designs of classical modernism during the 1980s. The combination of architectural thinking, refined craftsmanship and highly limited production defines the character of this ensemble.

• Material: 925/1000 silver
• Edition: No. 20 of 100
• Contents: samovar, sugar bowl, milk jug, tray
• Samovar dimensions: H 36.5 cm × Ø 20.5 cm
• Sugar bowl dimensions: H 16.5 cm × Ø 10 cm
• Milk jug dimensions: H 7.5 cm × Ø 10 cm
• Tray dimensions: Ø 45 cm