Gaetano Pesce UP5/6 “La Mamma” Lounge Chair & Ottoman for B&B Italia

Few pieces of 20th-century Italian design are as immediately recognizable as Gaetano Pesce's UP5_6. Designed in 1969 for B&B Italia, the chair — often referred to as “La Mamma,” “Big Mama,” or “La Donna” — combines an expressive sculptural form with a deeply considered concept.

This example is from the 2000s Serie Up 2000 edition and is upholstered in black striped Soara stretch fabric. The elastic textile follows the generous curves of the chair, emphasizing its distinctive silhouette while allowing the sculptural foam construction to remain the focus.

The chair is formed from flexible cold-shaped Bayfit® polyurethane foam with a jute-covered underside. The spherical UP6 ottoman is connected to the chair by its original nylon cord, completing the characteristic ball-and-chain composition.

Pesce's design was deliberately anthropomorphic. The rounded body of the chair references the womb and ancient representations of fertility goddesses, while the attached ottoman introduces the contrasting image of a woman with a ball and chain. Pesce used the design to express his personal ideas about women's position in society, making the UP5_6 both a piece of furniture and a statement in design.

The UP Series remains one of Pesce's defining works and received the Compasso d'Oro ADI Career Award in 2022.

Details:

• Designed by Gaetano Pesce, 1969
• UP5_6 lounge chair with UP6 ottoman
• Also known as “La Mamma,” “Big Mama,” and “La Donna”
• Manufactured by B&B Italia
• 2000s Serie Up 2000 edition
• Black striped Soara stretch fabric
• Bayfit® flexible cold-shaped polyurethane foam
• 100% jute underside
• Original nylon connecting cord
• Manufacturer's label present

Dimensions:

• Chair width: 47.24 in (120 cm)
• Chair depth: 51.18 in (130 cm)
• Total height: 40.55 in (103 cm)
• Seat height: 16.54 in (42 cm)
• Ottoman diameter: 22.44 in (57 cm)

Condition:
Excellent, like-new condition with very light to no visible signs of use. The black striped upholstery presents exceptionally well, with no significant wear apparent. The manufacturer's label is present on the underside. Structurally sound and ready for use.