Pirò

Souvenirs designed for Calabria

The spinning top is an ancient toy, indeed, very ancient. It is present in cultures around the world and has always gathered groups of children who, with dexterity and skill, challenge each other to keep it spinning as long as possible. There is an interesting version, widespread in the Mediterranean area since the times of Magna Graecia and still produced in some areas of Calabria.

It is called “Strummo, Strummolo, Pirrocciolo…” We have named it Pirò, inspired by the name it is known by in Grecanic Calabria, “Piroce.”

Pirò is not just a simple spinning top, but an object with a dual soul. It can be disassembled, inverted, and reassembled to form a dancing figure. Even the string, a functional element used to launch the top, changes its meaning, becoming a decorative element that adorns the dancer’s skirt.

Both characters are united by the theme of motion, dance, and evolution.

Being in motion, an aspect inherent in the very nature of the spinning top, becomes an abstract concept when it transforms into the static dancing figure, a projection of imaginary twirls.

The theme of movement and action is also the goal of our project, which arises from the desire to create an object capable of interacting with its user, to surprise and to reflect on the importance of memory and traditions that have allowed this game to traverse the centuries and reach us today.

Sapiens Design Collection for Materia Design Festival – 2023

Materials: wood and fabric cord