40 Years of the 9093 Kettle by Michael Graves: an icon that brought poetry into kitchens around the world.
In 1985, for the first time in its history, Alessi entrusted a project to an American designer. Michael Graves, architect and internationally renowned designer, was a leading figure in the postmodern movement. The result was the 9093 kettle with a bird-shaped whistle, an object destined to leave a lasting mark on the history of design. Alberto Alessi had the intuition to develop a product aimed especially at the North American market, built on a new and recognizable visual language. What emerged was a design that defined the 1980s and went on to become a globally recognized icon.
A global cultural symbol
Forty years after its debut, we celebrate a kettle that continues to combine function, aesthetics and meaning with elegance. Its inspired mix of postmodern and pop language has created a cultural, social and environmental impact that reflects Alessi’s unique vision and approach to design. With more than 2 million pieces sold, the 9093 kettle was Alessi’s best seller for nine years.It found its way into millions of homes, used daily to boil water, displayed in kitchens as an object to admire, and loved for its unmistakable bird-shaped whistle. Today, the 9093 is part of the permanent collections of 18 modern art museums around the world, including the Centre Pompidou in Paris, the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It has also appeared in 26 international films and television series.
“I wanted something light. I thought, wouldn't it be interesting if I could use the water to animate the little bird perched at the end of the spout?”
Alberto Alessi
A story of craftsmanship and expertise
Produced in our Crusinallo factory, the 9093 kettle has generated nearly 500,000 hours of work over 40 years, involving around 100 people including designers, technicians and skilled workers. It is made through 61 carefully executed steps, both manual and industrial, making it a shining example of Italian manufacturing excellence.
Built to last
The 9093 is designed to stand the test of time. Its iconic shape gives it an aesthetic longevity that spans generations, helping reduce environmental impact by avoiding replacement.It is more than a simple kettle. For forty years, it has enriched everyday life with a touch of poetry. And it will continue to do so for years to come.
The new editions
Alessi creations have always reflected the spirit of their time, adapting to a world that continues to evolve. The 9093 kettle renews itself once again, proving its ability to meet the challenges of contemporary design. To celebrate this important anniversary, Alessi presents two new editions of the legendary 9093. Both feature a sleek black finish that highlights the vivid orange of the iconic bird by Michael Graves.
