Diaframma Sconce from Fontana Arte, 1960s

Details

Description

A rare 1960s “diaframma” wall lamp by the visionary collective gianemilio, piero & anna monti (g.p.a. Monti) for fontana arte … Read more A rare 1960s “diaframma” wall lamp by the visionary collective gianemilio, piero & anna monti (g.p.a. Monti) for fontana arte — where engineering meets artistry.
crafted in chromed brass and satin acid etched glass, this mid-century adjustable masterpiece mimic a camera’s diaphragm, casting light with sculptural precision. A hallmark of italian modernism, the diaframma sconce transcends trends, offering collectible brilliance for a discerning aesthete.
the diaframma sconce is exceptional because of its:
- rarity: few originals survive with such patina and integrity;
- origin: it was designed during fontana arte’s golden era when designer max ingrand created many pieces for the renowned italian firm;
- versatility: the sconces adjustable panels create dynamic illumination, sublime in both contemporary and vintage contexts. When closed, the sconce is 24 cm wide; when open, it measures 45 cm.
the wall lamp is preserved in good condition, but with some signs of the time only, such as the patina on the surface.

the milanese trio gianemilio, piero & anna monti (active 1948–1980s) used to fuse architectural discipline with material innovation.
their legacy includes:
- lighting: the diaframma (1968), lampira (1970s), and tapira series for fontana arte;
- furniture: peculiar plastic works for famous firms kartell and de padova.
- architecture: villas in piona and forte dei marmi, blending modernist rigor with organic fluidity.
their ethos? "design without dogma" — a balance of technical mastery and poetic form.
fontana arte: a milanese design dynasty
founded in 1932 by luigi fontana and gio ponti, this atelier became synonymous with light-as-art under directors like pietro chiesa (1930s) and max ingrand (1950s–60s).
fontana arte’s hallmarks are:
- mastery of glass: layered crystal, bent diffusers, and metallic finishes.
- timeless creations: from ponti’s bilia table lamp to ingrand’s dahlia chandeliers.
- accolades: 1998 compasso d’oro winner, cementing its status as italy’s lighting avant-garde. this piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution,
european plug (up to 250v).the wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less