£795.00
A wonderfully sculptural Mid-Century Italian travertine table lamp, dating to circa 1970, combining the warmth and natural texture of pale travertine with the clean reflective finish of polished metal.
A wonderfully sculptural Mid-Century Italian travertine table lamp, dating to circa 1970, combining the warmth and natural texture of pale travertine with the clean reflective finish of polished metal.
Compact yet exceptionally substantial, the lamp has a strong architectural quality. The stone body is constructed from a rhythmic arrangement of individual vertical travertine sections, positioned around the central body to create a distinctive geometric profile. Their softly rounded outer edges contrast beautifully with the otherwise rectilinear form, giving the lamp a sense of movement without relying on applied decoration.
The result is a particularly attractive example of the material-led approach associated with Italian Modernist lighting of the 1970s, when travertine was frequently combined with chrome and polished metal. Period Italian examples in travertine and chrome are well documented, including both anonymous production and designs associated with Fratelli Mannelli.
The substantial base is formed from pale cream travertine, with the individual stone sections arranged vertically around all four sides.
Rather than being carved with conventional fluting, the architectural effect is created by the construction and repetition of the separate rounded stone elements. This gives the lamp a particularly strong three-dimensional quality, with alternating projections and recesses creating changing areas of light and shadow.
The natural travertine has a beautifully tactile surface, displaying the characteristic open pores, cavities, mineral deposits and tonal variations for which the stone is known. The colour varies subtly from warm ivory and cream through to soft beige and occasional deeper ochre markings.
At 7.8 kg, the lamp is exceptionally substantial for its relatively compact 13 cm square footprint, reinforcing the quality and solidity of the stone construction.
Rising centrally from the travertine is a slender polished metal column terminating in a simple metal lampholder. Its highly reflective surface provides an effective contrast to the porous, matt texture of the natural stone below.
The restrained combination of travertine and polished metal is strongly associated with Italian decorative lighting of the 1970s. Comparable documented examples use travertine alongside chrome-plated metal and are catalogued as Italian Modernist or Mid-Century designs of the period.
No maker's label is visible on the present lamp, so I would not attribute it to Fratelli Mannelli or another named designer without further documentary evidence. It is better catalogued confidently as Italian, circa 1970, based on its construction, materials and design language.
The lamp has been fully rewired, allowing this original Mid-Century piece to continue to be used as functional lighting.
The polished metal stem and lampholder have been retained, preserving the clean contrast between the reflective metalwork and natural travertine.
The lampshade shown in the principal photograph is not included in the sale price, but can be purchased separately from Shackleton Fox.
The lamp is photographed with our Small Empire Lampshade – Ecru with Stucco, handmade in the UK. Its warm neutral colouring has been chosen to complement the natural cream and beige tones within the travertine.
Small Empire Lampshades – Shackleton Fox
The relatively narrow stone base also means the lamp can accommodate a number of different shade styles depending upon the intended interior.
Presented in good Mid-Century condition, with minor signs of age and previous use consistent with a piece dating from circa 1970.
The travertine naturally displays numerous open pores, cavities, fissures and irregularities. These are inherent characteristics of the stone rather than necessarily later losses or damage and contribute significantly to the appearance and individuality of the lamp.
There are some larger natural voids and irregular areas visible within individual sections, together with minor edge wear and surface marks. These have been left visible rather than artificially filled, preserving the natural character of the material.
The polished metal components show minor surface marks and age-related wear. The lamp has been fully rewired and presents extremely well.
Please refer closely to the detailed photographs, which form an important part of the condition report.
This is a particularly versatile piece of 1970s Italian lighting design.
Its architectural construction gives it considerably more character than a conventional solid-block travertine lamp, while its restrained palette allows it to sit comfortably alongside both antique and contemporary furnishings.
It would work particularly well as a bedside lamp, desk lamp, console lamp or side-table light, while its compact dimensions make it useful where surface space is limited.
The natural stone also makes it particularly successful within interiors combining Mid-Century pieces with antiques, contemporary art and natural materials.
Height: 39 cm / 15.4 inches
Width: 13 cm / 5.1 inches
Depth: 13 cm / 5.1 inches
Weight: 7.8 kg / 17.2 lbs
Every item offered by Shackleton Fox is carefully inspected, prepared, and where necessary conserved within our workshop prior to sale.
As heritage craftsmen and antique specialists, we believe in preserving the authenticity and integrity of each piece. Original finishes, patina, wear, and signs of age are retained wherever possible, as these elements contribute to both character and historical significance.
When restoration, rewiring, repairs, or conservation work is required, it is undertaken sympathetically using traditional techniques and materials appropriate to the period of the piece. Our philosophy is one of careful stewardship rather than unnecessary restoration, ensuring antiques remain both functional and historically respectful.
The result is a collection of pieces that have been thoughtfully prepared, allowing future owners to enjoy them with confidence while preserving their unique story and character.
