Vintage Sintesi Tavolo Table Lamp by Ernesto Gismondi for Artemide, 1970s

Details

Description

A large-format sintesi table lamp, designed by ernesto gismondi for artemide in italy during the 1970s. Part of the influential … Read more A large-format sintesi table lamp, designed by ernesto gismondi for artemide in italy during the 1970s. Part of the influential sintesi lighting family introduced in 1975, it is an excellent example of gismondi's distinctive combination of industrial aesthetics, mechanical ingenuity and functional design.

the lamp is finished in contrasting black and white, with a substantial white-painted cast iron base supporting a long black-painted steel tubular stem. Its substantial construction is balanced by an expressive, almost sculptural upper assembly, combining a white reflector, silvered inner diffuser and protective black wire cage.

the lamp head is particularly ingenious. The black metal protective cage rotates and lifts away from the bulb housing, providing access for changing the bulb while also allowing the light to be adjusted. The exposed bulb holder incorporates an integral rocker switch. A pivoting joint, secured by a distinctive u-shaped metal strap, allows the head to be repositioned, while a large, ergonomically shaped adjustment screw provides firm control over its position.

this combination of adjustable components and protective detailing is characteristic of the sintesi collection. Rather than concealing its construction, gismondi made the mechanical elements an integral part of the design. The cage, pivot, adjustment screw and exposed structure all contribute to its distinctive industrial appearance.

at 90 cm tall, this is a substantial and unusually striking table lamp, ideal for a large desk, studio, side table or reading area. Its bold proportions and contrasting finishes make it an attractive functional object as well as a recognisable piece of 1970s italian lighting design.

an excellent vintage example from one of artemide's most important early collections, designed by the company's founder, ernesto gismondi.

details
designer: ernesto gismondi
manufacturer: artemide
collection: sintesi
type: large table / desk lamp
date: 1970s
design introduced: 1975
country of manufacture: italy
materials: aluminium, steel, cast iron and plastic
colours: white and black, with silvered reflector
shade: adjustable reflector with rotating, lift-up protective wire cage
adjustment: pivoting head with u-shaped support and large tightening screw
switch: integral rocker switch on bulb housing
height: 90 cm
diameter: 26 cm
width: 13 cm
cable: long black electrical cable
plug: european plug; uk plug adapter supplied if required


condition
excellent vintage condition and confirmed working. The lamp retains its distinctive adjustable head, protective rotating cage and original mechanical detailing. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed view of the finish and condition.

about the designer – ernesto gismondi
ernesto gismondi (1931–2020) was an italian engineer, industrial designer and entrepreneur, best known as the founder of artemide. His background was in aeronautical engineering, and he also specialised in missile engineering before concentrating on lighting and industrial design.

in 1960, gismondi founded studio artemide with architect and designer sergio mazza in milan. His engineering background strongly influenced his approach to design: he was interested in how objects worked, how they could be assembled efficiently and how their mechanical construction could become part of their visual identity.

the sintesi collection, introduced in 1975, was his first lighting design for artemide. It established an approach based on adaptable components, articulated structures and straightforward mechanical solutions. Gismondi later became involved in the influential memphis design movement and received the compasso d'oro for his contribution to italian design.

about the manufacturer – artemide

founded in milan in 1960 by ernesto gismondi and sergio mazza, artemide became one of the leading names in italian modern lighting. The company developed an international reputation for combining technological research with innovative industrial design.

the sintesi collection was an important early milestone. Introduced in 1975, it was conceived as a family of related lighting designs rather than a single fixed-form lamp. Its adjustable metal structures, protective cages, reflectors and interchangeable components demonstrated a practical, engineering-led approach to lighting.

the collection's distinctive industrial aesthetic reflected the optimism of 1970s italian design, when designers increasingly celebrated mechanical construction and the possibilities of modern materials. Fifty years after its introduction, artemide celebrated sintesi with a reissue, recognising its continuing relevance and its importance in the company's history. I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources 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