Page 29 - #56 English

Designed by famous architect and designer Mat-
teo Thun in 1992, the classic white espresso cup is
illy’s master piece. It’s said that the design booklet
is as thick as 70 pages. The distinctive profile and
scientifically designed for human comfort handle has
become a symbol of illy with so many features:

1 Feather edge design gives a sense
of smooth touch.
2 Cup wall thickness gradually
built up for easy stacking.
3 Ring shape iconic handle and
perfectly fitting curve design
gives a new sensory and aes-
thetic experience.

4 Round shape design keeps the
coffee warmth and aroma.

5 Raised center of the saucer in-
spired by Vesuvius Volcano.

6 Saucer also has specially de-
signed place for sugar and spoon.

The patented design has become a symbol of illy in more than 70
countries, which Mr. Thun (the designer of the cup) might never ex-
pected. An ideal coffee container would enrich user’s tasting experience
with senses and nature aesthetics. This little cup, more than just retaining
heat and delivering aroma, also brings enjoyment in the sense of touch
and sight.
Since its birth, the artwork has opened the chapter of the illy Art
Collection. Hundreds of artists including Michelangelo Pistoletto, Ma-
rina Abramovic, Sandro Chia, Jeff Koons have created their signature
cups with illy, a perfect mix of contemporary art and coffee utensil. illy’s
espresso cup is one of the best interpretation of coffee cup philosophy
and the sense of touch.

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