Memphis Nilo vase

Nilo is one of the iconic vases created by Ettore Sottsass in 1983, part of a series dedicated to rivers, with an obvious reference to water and its fluidity. Sottsass breaks down and recomposes the traditional form of the ceramic vase, creating a sculpture that plays with unstable balance. The bizarre vertically stacked shapes, made of white porcelain, are accentuated by a single splash of colour that creates a surprising and dynamic contrast. The visual effect of the vase is paradoxical: despite the apparent instability, each piece is perfectly balanced, as if suspended between movement and stillness. The use of white, hand-painted porcelain adds a unique handcrafted dimension, emphasising the contrast between the purity of the material and the boldness of the composition. Nilo is an example of Sottsass' distinctive language, transforming a functional object into an artistic statement, evoking the fluidity and strength of rivers through shapes and colours that challenge traditional design conventions.

• Designer: Ettore Sottsass
• Collection: Memphis milano 
• Material: porcelain
• Year: 1983

Dimensions:

• Height: 310 mm 
• Base diameter: Ø140mm