totem is a famous design object designed by architect Mario Bellini and launched by BRIONVEGA in 1971. An object that uses simple shapes like the cube, thus leading to modularity and composability, hides the functions of a hi-fi device. A turntable with stereo loudspeakers unfolds from this apparent cube; he calls it totem rr130.
The art of design since 1960
«With the totem, I didn’t necessarily want to appeal to the individual enthusiast, the passionate experimenter. Rather, I wanted to give the system a nice shape so that it would fit better in a home environment. It does not necessarily have to be used together with professional equipment.» Mario Bellini
The totem, along with other works by Bellini and Brionvega, is exhibited in the most important modern art museums around the world. Including the MoMa in New York.
When the stereo system is closed, it is a simple cube. But as soon as it is opened, the speakers rotate outwards and act like wings. The product manages to perfectly combine form and sound. Opening the cube, inserting the disc, and starting the music create a kind of ritual for the user. The product is a piece of modern art, transforming an apparently reduced form into something larger.
