Elio Martinelli, Mushroom appliqués for Martinelli Luce

ELIO MARTINELLI (Lucca 1922-2004) for Martinelli Luce.
Pair of sconces model "Mushroom" 2770/55, Italy, ca. 1970.
In opaline methacrylate and lacquered metal.
In good overall condition, with slight surface wear commensurate with age. Electrical system revised.
Measurements: 54 cm (diameter) each.

Pair of large format sconces belonging to the "Mushroom" series, one of the most representative designs of Elio Martinelli within the Italian Space Age language. Hemispherical diffusers in opal methacrylate with central element in orange lacquered metal, which provides a characteristic chromatic accent. The composition, based on pure geometric shapes and diffused light, reflects the futuristic aesthetics of Italian design of the 1970s.

Trained by the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence as a set designer; Elio Martinelli begins to take his first steps in the field of lighting in the business of his father Plinio. After a few years and after several experiences in the scenography sector, he decides to start his own business focusing initially on interior design and set-up of stores, restaurants, hotels and pubs. Due to the need to finish his plans, he drew and made the lighting fixtures on his own. During the 50's, Elio accentuates his simple and rigorous inspiration giving a strong impulse to his company that becomes a point of reference for Italian design in the geometry of lighting and nature considered from its many forms. A crescendo of intuitions and experimentations using new materials such as methacrylate. From these first tests were born very different lamps such as Foglia, Bolle, Cobra or Biconica.
Elio Martinelli was an inexhaustible source of ideas and innovation whose design objects such as Cobra, Bolla, Semisfera and many others are still examples of this original design impulse.