A pair of  table / wall lamps Model 551, designed by Gino Sarfatti in 1952 and produced in Italy by Arteluce.

The lamps have an exceptionally simple construction. A single bent brass rod forms the base and upright support, while the painted aluminium reflector is attached at the top by an adjustable friction joint. There is very little material involved, yet the geometry of the brass frame gives the lamp a surprisingly strong and distinctive form.

The reflector can be rotated to alter the direction of the light, allowing what is essentially a very simple lamp to be adjusted according to where and how it is being used.

One of the interesting aspects of the Model 551 is its dual purpose. Sarfatti designed the lamp so that it could be used either standing on a table or mounted as a wall light. The solution is remarkably simple: a small hook is fixed to the wall and the lower section of the brass base simply rests on the hook. No additional wall bracket or complicated fitting is required.

For us, this is one of the cleverest details of the design. The same continuous brass rod that forms the base when the lamp is standing on a table also allows it to be suspended from the wall. Combined with the adjustable reflector, Sarfatti achieves two different uses from remarkably few components.

The two lamps have contrasting original finishes, one black and the other white. The shades are identical in form, while the difference in colour gives each lamp a slightly different character. The brass frames have developed a warm, naturally aged surface that works particularly well against the black and white painted aluminium.

For us, these lamps demonstrate what Sarfatti did so well during this period. The construction is extremely economical, but every element has a purpose. There is nothing superfluous to the design.

Both lamps retain remnants of their original Arteluce manufacturer's labels to the inside of the shades.

The lamps have been carefully cleaned and remain in very good original condition. There are scratches, small marks and areas of paint loss to the shades consistent with their age and use. We have deliberately retained these original painted surfaces rather than refinishing them. The brass has likewise been left with its naturally developed patina.

Offered together, the contrasting black and white finishes emphasise the clarity of Sarfatti's design while allowing the lamps to work either alongside one another or separately.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.