Ettore Sottsass for Rinnovel Mela Decorative Object

A rare and iconic collectible from the pioneering Italian designer Ettore Sottsass, this sculptural object—titled “Mela”(Italian for "apple")—epitomizes the playful modernism that defined his early career. Crafted in the 1950s, the piece features a striking hemispherical form composed of two interlocking elements: a reflective polished aluminium dome with a stylized curved stem, and a deep cobalt blue glass bowl.
The contrast between the industrial metallic sheen and the rich vibrancy of the Murano-style glass creates a dialogue between materiality and colour—a recurring theme in Sottsass' work. Presented together, they form a whimsical and elegant apple-like silhouette, celebrating form, function, and conceptual design.
This piece reflects the early seeds of the radical aesthetic that would later crystallize in Sottsass’ Memphis Group in the 1980s.

Rinnovel is indeed one of the companies Ettore Sottsass worked with early in his career. They were known for producing modernist and experimental objects, often in small runs. It’s entirely plausible that the “Mela” decorative object was designed by Sottsass and produced by Rinnovel during that period, especially given the materials and the conceptual nature of the piece.

Designer: Ettore Sottsass 
Place of Origin: Italy
Date of Manufacture: 1950s
In style: Mid Century Modern
Materials & Techniques: Glass & Chrome 
Condition: Wear consistent with age and use

Dimensions:
Heigh: 23 cm
Diameter: 21 cm

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