Just to clarify, when I mention “coffee cups”, I’m specifically talking about those charming egg-shaped cups that are perfect for your latte, cappuccino, or espresso indulgences.

Having been deeply intrigued by this topic when I was in the market myself, I’m excited to share my discoveries with you.

Unveiling the True Essence of a ‘Real’ Espresso Cup

Meet George Sowden, a celebrated British industrial designer, best known for his contributions to the Italian design collective, Memphis, during the 1980s. Among his many creations, the egg-shaped espresso cups, affectionately known as “egg“, stand out. These uniquely shaped cups are not just aesthetically pleasing, but they also serve a practical purpose. They enhance the espresso tasting experience by intensifying the aromas and flavors. The thick porcelain walls of the cups not only ensure that your espresso stays hot for a longer duration but also add to the cup’s durability. Moreover, the porcelain material helps maintain the coffee’s aromatic purity as it does not retain any odors or flavors.

Discover the “Illy Art Collection” Mugs

Back in 1992, a creative ensemble of artists breathed new life into a coffee mug designed by Matteo Thun for illy, turning it into a blank canvas. This marked the inception of the illy Art Collection, a platform that has since allowed 132 internationally acclaimed artists (as of 2024) to showcase their creativity. If you’re intrigued by any of the past editions, you might need to embark on a treasure hunt on platforms like Le Bon Coin, eBay, or even, unexpectedly, Amazon to discover them up for grabs.

Unearth a wealth of artistic brilliance with the “illy Art Collection” series, a true gem for collectors and contemporary art aficionados alike. Since its inception in 1992, this collection has been graced by the creative genius of globally acclaimed artists such as Jeff Koons, Julian Schnabel, and Marina Abramović, who have masterfully transformed simple espresso cups into extraordinary works of art. Certain series, like the one crafted by artist Robert Rauschenberg in 1996, are especially coveted, with cups commanding impressive prices at auction. While the exact figures fluctuate, some limited and autographed series can command thousands of euros. For an estimate of these prized mugs’ worth, enthusiasts can turn to specialist platforms like Artvalue or Catawiki. These sites consider factors such as the artist, limited edition, and preservation status to provide accurate valuations, mirroring the escalating enthusiasm for these unique art pieces.

For those intrigued, there’s a fascinating book that delves into the captivating journey of the illy art collection. It’s a must-read for art enthusiasts!

Discover the Charm of Loveramics Mugs

Loveramics is a renowned name in the realm of contemporary ceramics, particularly known for its exquisite mugs. Established in 2008, the company has made a mark with its unwavering dedication to quality and design. Every piece is crafted with an eye for detail, marrying modern aesthetics with practicality. Loveramics collaborates with skilled artisans and innovative designers to create collections that are cherished by professionals and coffee enthusiasts alike. Boasting an international presence, the brand further strengthens its standing in the coffee world as a prominent sponsor of numerous latte art competitions.

Looking for their mugs? You’re in luck! You can discover their collection on their official website. Alternatively, you can also find them on Amazon for your convenience.

Discover the Ancap “Edizione Espresso” Collection

Ancap, a distinctive brand that may not be as renowned as Illy, hails directly from the heart of Italy. Drawing parallels with the Illy Art Collection, Ancap delights its customers with themed, limited-edition mugs. While these special editions may not be as widely publicized as Illy’s collection series, Ancap has unveiled several unique series over the past few years. Occasionally, you might stumble upon them on platforms like Le Bon Coin or eBay, priced in the range of tens of euros. This is precisely how I managed to add five of the six mugs from the “mondo futuro” collection to my own.

Wrapping Things Up

Regrettably, exquisite espresso cups remain a scarce find in the market. They are frequently linked with exclusive collections, which are sometimes highly sought after by collectors.

If you’re working with a limited budget and are in the market for one or more espresso or cappuccino cups, your best bet is to check out Le Bon Coin. Here, professionals frequently offer their merchandise for a mere €2 or €3 per item, making it an affordable option for your needs.

There exists a fascinating collection of mugs that, although not mentioned in this article due to their deviation from the egg-shaped mugs criteria, are highly sought after. These mini mugs have garnered such a fan base among collectors that they’ve sparked a sort of underground trading scene, often referred to as the “Starbucks mug black market“.

L’article A rare collection of espresso cups est apparu en premier sur CoffeeGeek.