Pair of Brass and Opal Glass Wall Lamps by Gino Sarfatti, Italy 1950s
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Description
In postwar Italy, lighting design became a vital field of experimentation, uniting art, technology, and craft. Designers like Gino Sarfatti helped define a new language that embraced precision and artistic restraint. His work replaced excessive ornament with geometry, using simple forms and refined materials to reveal how illumination could shape a space.
This pair of wall lamps manufactured at Arteluce in the 1950s, captures that sensibility with characteristic elegance. Each lamp features a subtly flared opal glass shade mounted on a brass fitting, creating a delicate dialogue between the opaque shade and the dark metal. The glass diffuses the light into a gentle, ambient glow that softens its surroundings. The combination of opal glass and brass reflects the mid-century era’s preference for these materials, but the painted metal sets this piece apart. The brass base provides a tonal contrast to the light shades, as well as safely securing the model to the wall. The proportions are meticulously balanced, allowing the curved shades to appear weightless against when looked at straight on. Though understated, every element demonstrates Sarfatti’s mastery of form and proportion, where technical precision and visual grace coexist seamlessly. The lamps embody the modern Italian pursuit of beauty, an aesthetic guided not by excess, but by the harmony between light, material, and function.
Together, the pair radiates a quiet sophistication that stays true to 1950s Italian design. Their timeless appeal lies in their simplicity and modernism’s ability to balance innovation with emotion, craftsmanship and clarity.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections may be present on the glass due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age of the items.
Dimensions:
4.72 in W x 4.33 in D x 8.46 in H
12 cm W x 11 cm D x 21.5 cm H
Shipping:
These wall lamps will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the items in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.
IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU. -
More Information
Documentation: Documented elsewhere (similar item) Origin: Italy Period: 1950-1979 Materials: Glass, Metal Condition: Good. In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Creation Date: 1950s Number of Pieces: 2-3 Styles / Movements: Modern, Mid Century Dealer Reference #: 20253332 Incollect Reference #: 833251 -
Dimensions
W. 4.72 in; H. 8.46 in; D. 4.33 in; W. 12 cm; H. 21.5 cm; D. 11 cm;
Message from Seller:
Located in Utrecht, The Netherlands, H. Gallery specializes in modern and contemporary design with a strong focus on Brazil and Scandinavia. The gallery strives to preserve and promote especially Brazil's rich design heritage and curates a select group of contemporary artists. Meticulous research, ie getting in contact with the original designers, producers, their heirs, and retrieving and indexing old catalogues and magazines is at the heart of its activities. All works presented excel in great