Maison & Objet: Marcel Wanders designs ‘Circus' collection for Alessi

The creative director of the Dutch design studio Moooi, known for his quirky creations, has once again teamed with Alessi to design a new tableware and household accessories range. The Italian homeware brand's new fall/winter collection brings all the fun of the circus to this year's Maison & Objet interior design and decoration show in Paris (September 2-6), which is fittingly themed around games.

The "Circus" collection includes colorful stainless steel and china pieces including bowls, trays, ice buckets, wine coolers, salad bowls and cups, all finished in white, red, black and gold geometric patterns evoking the ambiance and aesthetic of the circus.

Alessi's superior range, Officina Alessi, has also been treated to a selection of items with this colorful theme. Marcel Wanders has created five objects, designed like miniature sculptures, each with their own personality. "The Jester" corkscrew, which goes by the name of Gilberto, is a wine-drunk joker who waves, dances and manically gesticulates, stealing the spotlight as he pulls another cork. Next comes "The Strongman" nutcracker, aka Marcello. From stomping grapes as a child to pressing olives and finally cracking nuts, his muscles have developed over the years to make this strongman a great helping hand in the home. Then in spins "The Ballerina," Valentina, a music box featuring a pirouetting baby elephant.

Every big top has its clown, and the Alessi circus is home to "The Candyman," aka Alberto, a candy dispenser. Finally, the fun is overseen by Massimo, "The Ringerleader," a call bell who lets everyone know when it's time to start the party.

Each limited-edition design in the Officina Alessi "Circus" collection will be produced in just 999 pieces.

The new Alessi fall/winter collection is being showcased at the Maison & Objet trade fair in Paris, France, which runs until September 6.