Castiglioni Flos Parentesi is a lamp designed by Achille Castiglioni and Pio Manzu in 1971. It is one of the most iconic lamps of the 20th century, and its design has stood the test of time. Over the years, the Parentesi has evolved from a practical floor lamp to an object of art, and it has been exhibited in museums around the world. In this article, we will explore the history, design, and impact of the Castiglioni Flos Parentesi.
The History of Castiglioni Flos Parentesi
Achille Castiglioni and Pio Manzu designed the Parentesi lamp for Flos in 1971. They wanted to create a lamp that could be adjusted to fit different spaces and settings, and that could also be easily moved around. The lamp is named after the bracket that supports it, which is shaped like a parenthesis.
The Parentesi lamp was meant to be a floor lamp, but it can also be mounted on the ceiling or on the wall. The bracket is made of steel, and it can be adjusted to fit different heights and angles. The lamp itself is a small spotlight that can be moved up and down the bracket, and it can also be rotated 360 degrees. The lampshade is made of aluminum, and it is available in different colors and finishes.
The Parentesi lamp quickly became popular, and it was awarded the Compasso d’Oro prize in 1979. It has been part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York since 1972, and it has also been exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and at the Centre Pompidou in Paris.
The Design of Castiglioni Flos Parentesi
The Castiglioni Flos Parentesi lamp is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The bracket and lampshade are simple and sleek, while the cord and pulley system add a touch of industrial design. The lamp is minimalist, yet it makes a bold statement in any space.
The lamp is made of high-quality materials, and it is built to last. The steel bracket is strong and durable, and it can support the weight of the lamp without bending or wobbling. The aluminum lampshade is lightweight and easy to clean, and it casts a focused beam of light that is perfect for reading, working, or highlighting artwork.
The lamp is also easy to assemble and disassemble, which makes it perfect for people who move around a lot. The bracket can be easily attached to the ceiling or wall with screws, and the lamp can be easily removed and reattached.
The Impact of Castiglioni Flos Parentesi
The Castiglioni Flos Parentesi lamp has had a significant impact on the world of design. It has inspired countless imitations and variations, but none has been able to replicate its unique combination of functionality and style.
The Parentesi lamp is still in production today, almost 50 years after it was first designed. It has been updated with modern LED technology, but its design remains unchanged. The lamp is a testament to the enduring power of good design, and its popularity shows no signs of waning.
