Viscontea by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni for Flos, 1960s

Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni designed the Viscontea pendant for Flos using the then new material, “cocoon” polymer. The result is a very original design in a cloud-like material that emanates a diffused light.

The lamp consists of a steel structure painted in white on which the “cocoon” polymer was applied in two layers, protected by a transparent finish. The technique and finished result was inspired by the way a silkworm makes its cocoon.

Viscontea is part of the first series “cocoon” lamps that was designed by the Castiglioni brothers and produced by Flos. The series include the Taraxacum pendant and the Gatto table lamp.

Viscontea is, together with Taraxacum, described in the ‘Repertorio del Design Italiano 1950-2000’ by Giuliana Gramigna on Page 84 (1960).

Attribution

• Designer:
  Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni
• Manufacturer:
  Flos
• Model / Name:
  Viscontea
• Design period:
  1960
• Year of production:
  1960s
• Country:
  Italy

Character

• Materials:
  "Cocoon" polymer
• Techniques:
  The lamp features a white painted steel frame which is then sprayed with a unique "cocoon" resin to create the diffuser. It is protected by a transparent finish.
• Condition:
  Very good vintage condition
• Height:
  48 cm / 19 inch
• Width:
  62 cm / 25 inch
• Depth:
  58 cm / 23 inch

Shipping

• Weight:
  1.4 kg / 4 lb
• Ships from:
  Rotterdam, The Netherlands
• Product code:
  1819343