Pipistrello Lamp by Gae Aulenti for Martinelli Luce, 1965

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Vintage and iconic table lamp realized for Martinelli Luce in 1965 and manufactured in 1970. Rare first edition. Enameled aluminum, … Read more Vintage and iconic table lamp realized for Martinelli Luce in 1965 and manufactured in 1970. Rare first edition. Enameled aluminum, stainless steel, and opaline methacrylate Adjustable height: 66–86 cm (26–33¾ in.) Manufacturer’s label: Martinelli Luce, Mod. 620, Made in Italy An icon of postwar Italian design, the Pipistrello (Italian for “bat”) lamp is one of the most celebrated creations by architect and designer Gae Aulenti, conceived in 1965 for Martinelli Luce. Its name derives from the lamp’s distinctive shade—formed by four gracefully curved opaline methacrylate petals—evoking the outstretched wings of a bat in flight. The telescopic shaft in brushed stainless steel, combined with the flared enameled aluminum base, allows for adjustable height and creates a bold interplay between industrial precision and sculptural organic form. The lamp’s innovative use of new materials—particularly methacrylate—embodied the optimistic experimentation of 1960s Italian design, bridging Modernist discipline and poetic imagination. Originally conceived for the Olivetti showrooms, the Pipistrello quickly became an enduring symbol of Mid-Century Italian lighting design, now part of major museum collections including the MoMA (New York) and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Paris).In excellent overall condition, with minor surface wear consistent with age and use. Original manufacturer’s label present. Fully functional. 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,
Up to 250V (Europe/UK Standard).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less