Polifemo or Eye Floor Lamp Model 12555 by Angelo Lelii for Arredoluce, Italy, 1950s

Description

The Eye or Polifemo floor lamp, designed by Angelo Lelii in 1956 and produced by Arredoluce in Italy, features a … more The Eye or Polifemo floor lamp, designed by Angelo Lelii in 1956 and produced by Arredoluce in Italy, features a slender metal pole with a flared top and an orb that houses the bulb. This orb pivots within a socket positioned about two-thirds up the shaft. The lamp combines a marble base, a painted nickel shaft and an eye made of brass and glass, reflecting Lelii's sleek and futuristic design direction. Just take a look at that gorgeous patina on the brass!
This very rare and exceptional piece is in good vintage condition, making it a great investment and ready to illuminate any interior.

Angelo Lelii (1911–1989) was born in Ancona, but later relocated with his family to Milan, where he pursued studies at the University of Decorative Arts in Monza. By 1939, he established a small workshop in Monza, crafting lamps and chandeliers celebrated for their sleek lines, meticulous craftsmanship and innovative use of technology. Despite an interruption during wartime, his designs gained recognition when three were featured in Domus Magazine in 1946. In 1947, Lelii founded Arredoluce in Monza, marking the beginning of collaborations with esteemed modernist designers like Domus cofounder and furniture maker Gio Ponti, Memphis Group member Ettore Sottsass and designers such as Franco Albini, Achille Castiglioni and Nanda Vigo. Lelii's best-known design is likely his Triennale floor lamp model 12128, unveiled at the Milan Triennale in 1947.
Other iconic pieces include the Cobra table lamp, the Tris lamp, the Eye floor light and the President table lamp. Lelii's innovative spirit led him to experiment with halogen bulbs and integrate transformers into his designs, a feature seen in many of Arredoluce's floor lamps. His lighting objects are characterized by their simplicity, minimalistic elegance and inherent sensitivity. This unique approach cemented Arredoluce's reputation for producing high-quality lighting with functional yet clean designs. This enduring appeal makes Lelii's creations highly sought after by collectors and mid-century design enthusiasts, valued both as technical masterpieces and sound investments. I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources and take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising
from
misattribution,
European Plug (up to 250V).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. less