Kartell

Cesel Carafe plastic material transparent / Patricia Urquiola

Cesel Carafe: Chiseled Design Reimagined by Patricia Urquiola

With Cesel, Patricia Urquiola brings the spirit of artisanal chiseling to a contemporary, transparent material. Designed for Kartell, this Carafe—measuring Ø 10 x H 25.7 cm—stands out for its deliberately irregular surface, animated by reliefs that catch the light. The result evokes not so much a perfectly smooth vessel as a sculpted, almost tactile object, where every reflection contributes to the design. Made from food-safe recycled plastic, it combines formal innovation with everyday functionality.

A surface inspired by artisanal craftsmanship

The name “Cesel” refers directly to chiseling, a decorative technique historically associated with metalwork. Patricia Urquiola draws particularly on its rhythm, small irregularities, and the surface’s vibrating effect, transposing them onto a transparent material. The reliefs are therefore not merely a decorative motif. They alter the perception of the Carafe depending on the viewing angle, the light, and its contents.

This design creates an intriguing dialogue between artisanal craftsmanship and industrial production. Kartell also evokes a balance between technical precision and controlled imperfection. The slightly uneven texture of the walls gives the Carafe a more expressive presence than a perfectly uniform container.

A carafe designed as a tableware piece

Standing 25.7 cm tall with a diameter of 10 cm, the Cesel Carafe makes a strong visual statement without being bulky. Its tall, slightly irregular silhouette complements the other pieces in the collection, which also includes glasses, flutes, Cocktail glasses, and a tray. Together, they form a cohesive set where the repetition of textures creates a true table landscape.

The four color variations significantly alter its appearance. The transparent version highlights the purity of the texture. The green adds a botanical tone. The blue accentuates the depth of the shadows. The amber warms the reflections and gives the table a sunnier presence.

What is the purpose of the Cesel carafe’s texture?

The texture serves both the design and the perception of the material. The reliefs capture, fragment, and reflect light, causing the Carafe’s appearance to change throughout the day. Once filled, the liquid further accentuates these interplays of transparency and depth.

Is the Cesel carafe suitable for everyday use?

Yes. It’s made of food-safe recycled plastic and is dishwasher-safe, making it particularly easy to use and maintain on a daily basis. Its appeal lies precisely in this blend of functionality and highly expressive surface treatment.

Which glasses pair well with the Cesel carafe?

The Carafe can naturally be paired with other pieces from the Cesel collection to create a coordinated set. This works particularly well in tone-on-tone combinations, but the different colors can also be mixed to play with transparencies, contrasts, and reflections on the table.

With Cesel, Patricia Urquiola transforms a familiar object into a visual and tactile experience. A Carafe that does not seek smooth perfection, but rather the richness of texture, light, and small irregularities that bring the material to life.

In detail:

• Variation : Transparent

• Brand : Kartell

• Designer : Patricia Urquiola

• Type : Carafe

• Colour : Transparent

• Material : Recycled PMMA

• Dimensions : Ø 10 x H 25.7 cm
• Weight : 1.54 lb
• Characteristics : Made in Italy - Textured surface with embossed patterns, inspired by artisanal engraving - Safe for food contact - Innovative, eco-friendly material - Dishwasher safe - Not microwave safe - Project date: 2026