Gino Sarfatti for Arteluce ‘181’ Wall Light

Gino Sarfatti for Arteluce, wall light, model ‘181’, lacquered steel, coated steel, lacquered aluminum, brass, Italy, 1951

This wall light, a variation on model 181, is designed by the influential designer in the field of lighting design Gino Sarfatti (1912-1985) for Arteluce in 1951. Sarfatti founded Arteluce in 1936, an Italian lighting company that garnered acclaim for its groundbreaking and pioneering designs, defying conventional norms prevalent during that period. Functional principles, such as flexibility and adaptability, guided Sarfatti through the design process. He conceived a modular approach to lighting systems, enabling the user to personalize and adjust the lighting fixtures according to its preferences and needs. A significant part of the released designs incorporated practical elements, such as adjustable arms and rotating mechanisms. This innovative approach had a profound influence on the conceptualization and utilization of lighting within interiors around that time. In addition to their functional attributes, the lamps crafted by the company were predominantly characterized by a pure and minimalist aesthetic. A decoration was subordinate to the constructive element, focusing on the essential composition of geometric forms and usage of materials.
Gino Sarfatti considers this type of wall lights as ‘extendible wall sconce’. The grey lacquered wall bracket functions as a supporting structure for the black coated arm that suspends the circular lampshade. The designer devised a clever system, allowing the user to change the position of the light. The arm can be moved sideways by means of the rotatable joint in brass. Furthermore, due to the cylindrical-shaped counterweight and brass handle, the diffuser can be raised or lowered vertically. The design highlights the lamp's mechanical components, giving it a raw yet sophisticated look.

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