Vintage Topolino Table Lamp by Joe Colombo for Stilnovo, 1980s

Details

Description

Joe colombo topolino table lamp

designer: joe cesare colombo (1930–1971)
manufacturer: stilnovo, milan, italy
design year: 1970
production period: 1970s … Read more Joe colombo topolino table lamp

designer: joe cesare colombo (1930–1971)
manufacturer: stilnovo, milan, italy
design year: 1970
production period: 1970s (mid-century modern)
alternate name: minitopo

description
a sculptural and playful example of 1970s italian design, the topolino (“little topo”) table lamp reflects joe colombo’s fascination with organic, futuristic forms and functional innovation. Its distinctive mouse-like silhouette—hence the name topo (“mouse” in italian)—features a domed aluminium lampshade mounted on a tubular chromed steel base.

materials
base: chrome-plated ring tube
lampshade: green painted aluminium
other components: metal fittings, bakelite e27 bulb socket

dimensions
lampshade diameter: 20 cm (7.87”)
height: 36 cm (14.17”)
width: 28 cm (11.02”)

electrical
socket: e27
bulb: 1 × max 75w, 110/220v
compatible with all bulb types
cable length: 250cm (98.43")

markings and variants
produced in multiple colours and slight variations in size and labelling:
some marked with a stamped metal label
others with a glued manufacturer’s label

related designs
the topo series included table, desk, floor, wall, and clamp versions.
contemporary reissues are available from stilnovo (as of 2021).

designer: joe cesare colombo
born in milan in 1930, colombo studied at the brera academy of fine arts and later architecture at politecnico di milano. After joining the art concept group in 1955, he shifted from painting to design. In 1959, he took over his family’s electrical appliance company, exploring innovative production methods.
he opened his own studio in 1962, designing for oluce, kartell, alessi, bieffe, boffi, flexform, and stilnovo.
colombo’s visionary designs embodied the optimism of the space age. He passed away in 1971 on his 41st birthday.

manufacturer: stilnovo

founded in milan in 1946 by bruno gatta, stilnovo became a pioneer of postwar italian lighting design. The firm collaborated with prominent designers such as joe colombo, gae aulenti, gaetano sciolari, ettore sottsass, and cini boeri.
stilnovo ceased operations in 1988, though its legacy continues through modern revivals and reissues. This piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and 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