Space Age Sputnik Lamp in Chrome Metal, Germany, 1970s

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"Sputnik" Lamp, Space Age, Chrome-Plated Metal, 1970s – Germany

This excellent "Sputnik" ceiling lamp, in the Space Age style, was … Read more "Sputnik" Lamp, Space Age, Chrome-Plated Metal, 1970s – Germany

This excellent "Sputnik" ceiling lamp, in the Space Age style, was made in Germany during the 1970s. Its structure consists of a central metal core from which numerous rods radiate in different directions, topped with spheres and luminous finials. This creates a dynamic composition reminiscent of a satellite, an expanding star, or a celestial body. The Sputnik lamp's origins date back to October 4, 1957, the day the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite of Earth. Its design was simple yet remarkably recognizable: a polished metal sphere approximately 58 centimeters in diameter, pierced by four long antennas projecting outwards. Images of the satellite circled the globe within days, and its distinctive silhouette quickly became part of the visual landscape of mid-20th-century design – the Space Age. In the field of lighting, this geometric configuration was already being explored by some Italian designers. In 1958, Gino Sarfatti, founder of the Milanese studio Arteluce, presented his celebrated "Modelo 2097," a chandelier with a metal structure and numerous arms radiating from a central core. The piece would become one of the great benchmarks of mid-century modern lighting. Simultaneously, firms like Stilnovo developed luminaires during the 1950s and early 1960s that shared this same language of radial forms, lightweight structures, and futuristic appearance.

A sculptural piece, characteristic of German design in the 1970s, is especially suited to contemporary interiors, vintage design collectors, and spaces where lighting also functions as an artistic element.

• Category: Ceiling Lamp

• Material: Chrome-plated metal

• Title: Sputnik

• Style: Space Age

• Period: 1970s

• Country of Origin: Germany

• Dimensions: 100 x 75 cm

• Condition: Good condition for its age and use. One of the sockets needs repair.

• Origin: France
Up to 250V (Europe/UK Standard).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less