Mid century B&B Italia Up5 La Mamma Armchair & Up6 Ottoman by Gaetano Pesce, 1980s, Italy
An iconic masterpiece of Italian design: the legendary Up5_6 La Mamma armchair with matching Up6 spherical ottoman, designed by Gaetano Pesce for B&B Italia in Italy during the 1980s.
One of the most recognisable and influential furniture designs of the 20th century, the Up5_6 is celebrated for its extraordinary sculptural silhouette, expressive curves and distinctive red upholstery.
Originally conceived in 1969 as part of Gaetano Pesce’s revolutionary Up series, La Mamma was designed as a powerful artistic statement inspired by ancient fertility figures and the female form. The accompanying spherical ottoman, connected to the chair by a cord, symbolises a woman with a ball and chain. Through this provocative design, Pesce addressed themes of femininity, freedom and the social position of women.
Beyond its political message, the chair is an extraordinary example of experimental Italian furniture design. Its generously proportioned, organic form creates an inviting and enveloping seating experience, while the vibrant red colour gives it an unmistakable presence in any interior.
The armchair is constructed from flexible, cold-moulded polyurethane foam and finished with its characteristic elastic fabric upholstery, following every curve of its sculptural body. The matching spherical ottoman completes the original design concept.
The original B&B Italia manufacturer’s label is present underneath the chair, confirming the model UP and designer Gaetano Pesce, Made in Italy.
A remarkable collector’s piece and an architectural statement in its own right, this iconic design works beautifully in contemporary interiors, eclectic spaces and curated design collections.
Details
* Designer: Gaetano Pesce
* Manufacturer: B&B Italia
* Model: Up5_6 La Mamma with Up6 ottoman
* Period: 1980s
* Origin: Italy
* Style: Postmodern, Italian Radical Design, Mid-Century Modern
* Material: Flexible polyurethane foam, elastic fabric upholstery
* Colour: Red
* Original matching spherical ottoman included
* Original manufacturer label present
Dimensions (Armchair)
* Width: 120 cm
* Depth: 130 cm
* Height: 103 cm
* Seat height: 42 cm
Condition
Great vintage condition, with some visible stains and signs of age and previous use consistent with its vintage character. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed impression of the condition.
Shipping & Collection
Worldwide shipping available.
Collection is welcome from our Midagevintage showroom in Baden-Baden, Germany (76532).
A genuine statement piece of Italian design history, combining sculptural beauty, cultural significance and exceptional character.
