Jordi Vilanova

JORDI VILANOVA (Barcelona, 1925-1998).
Large table lamp "Anella" Series, early 60s.
Iron and stitched parchment.
Measurements: 80 x 34 cm.
The lamp has a structure composed of four wrought iron profiles, finished with black paint. These elements are articulated to form a cross-shaped base that ensures the stability of the whole, while delimiting an interior space intended to house the electrical wiring system. Approximately halfway up, the structure expands to form a metal ring or ring that integrates the ignition device, thus facilitating access and handling. At the top, the frame culminates in the support of the screen, which is covered with textile fabric, providing a warm texture that contrasts with the rigidity of the metal support.

Catalan interior designer and cabinetmaker, Jordi Vilanova enrolled in 1939 at the Escuela de Trabajo y Oficios Artísticos de la Lonja. He completed his training in the workshop of Busquets, and between 1940 and 1953 he collaborated in the studio of Lluís Gili. Jordi Vilanova was founder and promoter of the Catalan art magazine "Questions d'Art" (1967-74). In 1974 he opened premises with a permanent exhibition of furniture and upholstery of his own design, forming part of the Official College of Interior Decorators and Designers of Barcelona and the SAD. His modern furniture and his way of resolving spaces were initially aimed at a large public of limited economic resources and, consequently, homes with less living space. However, this great majority did not understand his proposal. Instead, it was the Catalan bourgeoisie, eager to break with outdated stylistic canons, who embraced his work. His specialty was furniture for children, such as the Delta stool, which won the Delta de Plata Prize awarded by the ADI/FAD in 1964. He held exhibitions of his work in Scandinavia. Among his most representative designs are the Tiracord and Billar chairs (1961), the Montseny MP bunk bed (1961), the Tartera (1966) and Petit (1978) rocking chairs and the Z magazine rack (1987) designed together with his son Pau Vilanova Vila-Abadal. It is currently represented in the Design Museum of Barcelona.