Richard Sapper was one of the most influential and visionary designers of the twentieth century, capable of changing the rules of industrial design with insights that anticipated the future. His work spanned nearly every field of design, marked by technical ingenuity and poetic sensitivity. He created objects that have become part of design history, from the Tizio lamp for Artemide to the coffee maker for Alessi, which won the 1979 Compasso d’Oro (an award he received ten times).

Born from his passion for sailing and for Lake Como, the RS96 handle was designed in 1996 and is now reissued by Mandelli1953 as part of the Archivi collection. Its soft curves evoke the movement of water and the tension of wind in the sails, transforming an everyday gesture into a sensory experience. Made of brass and finished with artisanal care, RS96 is a tribute to lightness and precision — to the enduring power of design that transcends time.

Founded in 1953, Mandelli1953 is a symbol of Italian excellence in brass craftsmanship and designer handles. Combining manual skill with industrial technology, the company from Como continues a tradition rooted in quality, research, and sustainability. The company draws inspiration from the archives of renowned designers such as Piero Portaluppi and Marcello Morandini, reflecting its commitment to quality design.