Gino Sarfatti 1055 floor lamps Arteluce Italy 1955 black

Gino Sarfatti

Italy 1912 – 1984
Engineer, lighting designer

This striking pair of Model 1055 floor lamps, designed by the renowned Gino Sarfatti and manufactured by Arteluce in Italy in 1955, exemplifies mid-century modernist lighting design. The lamps feature a sleek chrome-plated steel stem, while the black lacquered aluminum socket sleeve effortlessly slides and swivels along the center stem, allowing for versatile positioning to suit various lighting needs. A cast iron base, finished with Arteluce’s signature black crackle lacquer, ensures both stability and aesthetic refinement. Authenticity is further confirmed by the presence of original Arteluce stickers partially visible on the interior of the shades. Impressively, the original reflector bulbs remain functional, preserving the historical integrity of the pieces.

Born in Venice in 1912 and trained as an engineer, Gino Sarfatti revolutionized lighting design. In 1939, he founded Arteluce, a company that would go on to define modern Italian lighting. Under his leadership, Arteluce became a pivotal force in the architectural movement of the mid-20th century, collaborating with iconic designers such as Franco Albini, Gianfranco Frattini, Sergio Asti, and Ico Parisi.

Sarfatti was a true innovator, credited with designing over 400 lighting models. His pioneering work included early explorations with plexiglass in 1951 and the introduction of the first halogen bulb-powered lamp in 1971. His contributions to lighting design were recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Compasso d’Oro in both 1954 and 1955, as well as an Honorary Diploma from the Milan Triennale.

Arteluce was acquired by Flos in 1973, ensuring that Sarfatti’s legacy continued, with many of his designs remaining in production and sought after by collectors worldwide. The Model 1055 floor lamps stand as a testament to his visionary approach, seamlessly blending functionality with timeless elegance.

Literature; Gino Sarfatti selected works 1938-1973 Marco Romanelli Sandra Severi 2012, page 451

This lamp is checked in our own atelier, cleaned and is suitable for use in the USA. For US usage we could change the plug, or you can get a converter if needed for a floor or table lamp with transformer in it.

• Very good original condition