Pipistrello Lamp by Martinelli Luce

The Pipistrello lamp, designed by the renowned Italian architect Gae Aulenti in 1965, is a true icon of contemporary design. Originally envisioned to adorn the showrooms of Olivetti in Paris and Buenos Aires, its bold and innovative design allowed it to transcend fashions and eras. With its metal telescopic stem and methacrylate diffuser, Pipistrello breaks the conventions of 1960s design, standing out with its curved forms and futuristic allure.

Gae Aulenti sought to express a balance between functionality and aesthetics, defying the rigid codes of her time. The adjustable telescopic stem allows the lamp's height to be modified, transforming it from an elegant table lamp into a graceful floor lamp. This multifunctional aspect is one of the reasons for its enduring success, as it easily adapts to different environments, whether a living room, office, or art gallery.

The lamp owes its name to the shape of its diffuser, which evokes the wings of a bat unfolding just before flight. This dynamic, both frozen in time and full of movement, gives the Pipistrello a timeless elegance. Indeed, although designed over fifty years ago, it remains one of the most sought-after and admired design pieces today.

The success of the Pipistrello also lies in its ability to evolve. Over the years, Martinelli Luce has introduced variations of the lamp, notably the Mini Pipistrello model, more compact and cordless, as well as versions with dimmable LED lighting and mobile app control. These innovations maintain the lamp's relevance in the design market while preserving its unique aesthetic.

The Pipistrello is not just a commercial success; it is also a collectible object sought after by design enthusiasts and modern art lovers. Several limited editions have been released, including versions with exclusive metallic finishes, making the lamp a rare and precious piece. It is often showcased in design exhibitions and is part of the permanent collections of many museums around the world, including MoMA in New York and the Centre Pompidou in Paris.

In short, Pipistrello is not just a lamp; it is a work of art that defies time. Its organic design and versatility have made it a cult object for design aficionados, collectors, and architects around the world.