Lavazza Carmencita and Caballero – Icons of Coffee and Vintage Advertising

When it comes to Italian coffee, the name Lavazza is synonymous with tradition, quality, and culture. But beyond flavor, the brand has also left an indelible mark on the world of advertising and design, thanks to characters who have become true icons: Carmencita and Caballero.

Born in the 1960s, these two animated characters made Lavazza the protagonist of one of the most memorable advertising campaigns on Italian television, and today the signs, cans and gadgets depicting them are among the most sought-after vintage objects by collectors.

📌 The Birth of Carmencita and Caballero

Carmencita and Caballero were created by the famous director and illustrator Armando Testa in 1965 for a Lavazza campaign.

Carmencita, with her iconic triangular hat and melancholic gaze, immediately became recognizable.

Caballero, her Mexican lover, was the protagonist of the ironic and surreal love stories in the commercials.

These characters marked a turning point in Italian advertising, becoming icons of pop culture and symbols of the economic boom.

📌 Lavazza Milk and Signs with Carmencita and Caballero

In the 1960s and 1970s Lavazza produced numerous promotional items featuring the two characters, which are now highly sought-after by collectors:

Lavazza coffee latte with original graphics by Carmencita.

Illuminated enamel signs featuring Caballero and Carmencita, perfect for decorating kitchens, bars, and vintage venues.

Promotional gadgets and ornaments distributed as freebies to customers.

Today these pieces are considered icons of Italian advertising design, with prices rising especially if in excellent condition.

📌 Why Collect Carmencita and Caballero?

1. History of Italian advertising – They are among the first examples of television advertising storytelling.

2. Unmistakable design – Armando Testa's geometric shapes and stylized lines are a graphic masterpiece.

3. Collectible Value – Original signs and cans are rare and highly sought after, especially those in mint condition.

4. Decor with character – Perfect for decorating kitchens, bars, rooms and private collections with a ironic and retro touch.

📌 Where to Find Original Vintage Carmencita and Caballero?

If you're a fan of modern advertising and want to enrich your collection with original Lavazza signs, cans, and objects, Vintage World Milano is the right place!

☕️ Discover our collection
📍 Or come visit us in our shop in San Vittore Olona (Milan).