Serpente Model 599 Table Lamp by Elio Martinelli for Martinelli Luce, 1970s

Details

Description

A vintage italian serpente model 599 table lamp in chrome-plated metal and opal white methacrylate, designed by elio martinelli for … Read more A vintage italian serpente model 599 table lamp in chrome-plated metal and opal white methacrylate, designed by elio martinelli for martinelli luce and produced in italy, during the 1970s. An icon of italian modern and space age lighting, the serpente combines a sculptural curved chrome arm with a large domed diffuser that can rotate around its central pivot, allowing the silhouette and direction of the light to change. The model itself was designed in 1965 and remains one of martinelli luce’s most recognisable designs.

designer: elio martinelli
maker: martinelli luce
model: serpente 599
origin: italy
period: 1970s; design introduced in 1965
style: italian modern / space age / mid-century modern
materials: chrome-plated metal, opal white methacrylate
dimensions: 42 w x 42 d x 50 h cm (16.5 w x 16.5 d x 19.7 h in)
marked: yes, original martinelli luce label marked “mod. 599”

the serpente is built around one continuous sweeping gesture. Its substantial circular base flows into an arched tubular stem, which continues over the opaline dome to visually divide the diffuser in two. The contrast between reflective chrome and softly translucent white methacrylate gives the lamp a clean but distinctly sculptural presence. When illuminated, the broad diffuser produces an even, warm glow; when switched off, the lamp reads almost as an abstract object. The pivoting construction adds movement to an otherwise remarkably simple composition.

elio martinelli designed the serpente in 1965 during an important period of experimentation with plastics and new industrial forming techniques in italian lighting. Martinelli luce developed special in-house moulds for the thermoformed methacrylate diffuser, while the curved rotating arm became the defining feature of the design. The design dates to 1965, but this particular chrome example is more appropriately described as an estimated 1970s production. The manufacturer’s stylised martinelli luce mark belongs to the branding introduced from 1969 onward.

condition
good vintage condition with signs of age and use consistent with its period. The opal methacrylate diffuser shows surface scratches, small marks and areas of light discolouration, visible in the detailed photographs. The chrome-plated stem and base show scratches, patina, minor oxidation and spotting, particularly around the base. The lamp retains its original manufacturer label. 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