Luis Pérez de la Oliva

LUIS PÉREZ DE LA OLIVA (Spain, mid-twentieth century) for Fase.
Tharsis table lamp, 1970s.
In chromed metal.
Measurements: 46 x 15 x 31 cm.

In this singular table lamp, the lampshade and the cylindrical support are presented as two separate pieces of the same structure, with their slanted ends that seem to fit together. It is a device that gives the lamp an articulated, clean-lined design. The oblique cuts and the metallic and shiny finish provide a futuristic aesthetic, in keeping with the aerodynamic lines prevalent at the time. The screen is adjustable in a variety of positions.

Fase was a pioneer of Spanish design in the second half of the 20th century, internationally recognized for the innovation of its designs and the quality of its creations.

Luis Pérez de la Oliva specialized in the design of office and home lamps. He worked mainly for Fase in the seventies and eighties. His pieces radiate the timeless charm of vintage design. Spanish lighting manufacturer Fase was founded in Madrid in 1964 by industrial designer Pedro Martín. Martín sold his self-produced lamps first in markets, before successfully establishing a factory in Torrejón de Ardoz, on the outskirts of Madrid. In the 1970s, Fase was a major player in the Spanish manufacturing industry, contributing to an economy struggling with oil crises and a difficult transition to democracy. Fase sold lighting for more than three decades to 32 different countries, with its largest markets being the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, United Arab Emirates, Japan, Canada and the United States. Despite Fase's commercial success, information about the company and its history is scarce and sources often contradictory.