The 9091 Melodic Kettle by Richard Sapper is more than just a kitchen essential — it is a multisensory experience. Designed in 1982 as Alessi’s first design kettle, it revolutionized stovetop kettles by replacing the usual sharp whistle with a harmonious, melodic tune.
At the heart of its design are two brass whistles, which create a soft, pleasant sound as steam passes through, transforming an everyday moment into a small ritual of beauty. Crafted from mirror-polished stainless steel, its sculptural form is complemented by a black polyamide handle, designed with Sapper’s signature balance of function and elegance.
A timeless piece found in design museum collections worldwide, the 9091 Melodic Kettle is a true icon of poetic, sensory-driven design.
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Richard Sapper
Germany
Richard Sapper (1932–2015) was a German-born designer whose career masterfully bridged technical innovation and sculptural beauty. After moving to Milan in the 1950s, he worked with design legend Gio Ponti before establishing a long-standing partnership with Marco Zanuso. His work, known for its balance of functional precision and poetic detail, earned him eleven Compasso d’Oro awards—one of the highest honors in industrial design.
For Alessi, Sapper created some of the brand’s most iconic objects, including the 9090 espresso maker, which became the first Alessi product to win a Compasso d’Oro, and the 9091 melodic whistling kettle, a masterful fusion of sound and design. His La Cintura di Orione cookware collection showcases his dedication to elevating everyday kitchenware to an art form.
Sapper’s designs are housed in major museums worldwide, and his influence remains deeply embedded in the history of contemporary industrial design.
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