Italy - Large

A majestic version of the famous table lamp, this 120 cm floor lamp takes the concept of "light sculpture" to its apogee. Designed by Elio Martinelli in 1965, it uses the same 360° horizontal swivel system, allowing the light source to be offset with organic fluidity. It's a rare piece, less widely distributed than its little sister, that perfectly illustrates the golden age of Italian design where function dictates bold form. The stature of this floor lamp commands respect. The contrast between the slender black-lacquered metal shaft and the broad white methacrylate dome creates a unique visual dynamic. Its state of preservation, with its original markings, makes it a first-rate collector's item.
Born of the daring Italian design of the "light years", the Serpente lamp is much more than a luminaire: it's a kinetic sculpture. Designed by Elio Martinelli in 1965, it embodies the technological optimism and minimalist elegance of the period. Its silhouette, which seems to defy gravity, marked the history of industrial design by introducing new materials and an unprecedented rotary motion, earning it a place in the permanent collections of MoMA in New York. A Sacred Geometry La Serpente takes its name from its articulated structure, which evokes the movement of a cobra:

• The Arm:A black (or white, depending on version) lacquered metal arch that pivots horizontally on its base. This movement allows the light to be moved without moving the base, offering total flexibility.
• The Diffuser:A generous dome in white opaline methacrylate, an innovative material for its time, which diffuses a soft, homogeneous, glare-free light.
• The Base:A heavy, circular metal base, ensuring perfect stability whatever the orientation of the arm.

Origin:Italy Designer:Elio Martinelli (1921-2004)
Model:2130 "Serpente"
Era:1965
Dimensions:Height: 120 cm; Diffuser diameter: 53 cm.
Conditions:Very good condition. Fluid swivel system. Methacrylate in excellent condition, with no major cracks. Original wiring checked.
Provenance:Private French collection.

This is a period edition, as evidenced by the marking under the base. The patina of the black lacquered metal and the milky transparency of the methacrylate confirm its authenticity. In a gallery, it creates a striking contrast when placed next to pieces of high period (such as your Han terracottas): it illustrates the continuity of the quest for the perfect line across the millennia. It's a masterpiece for any collector of "Mid-Century" design.
The Utility of Emptiness: The Art of Movement The magic of this lamp lies in its hidden articulation. The rotating joint between the base and the arm is a feat of discretion, allowing the luminaire to metamorphose according to the angle chosen. This play between the fullness of the diffuser and the emptiness created by the curve of the arm dynamically structures the space. It doesn't impose its presence, but adapts to the architecture of the room.