A minimalist industrial lamp that disappeared from the market after just two years in the 1970s has been brought back to life by the original designer's grandson. The Model 262 lamp, originally created by renowned Italian lighting designer Gino Sarfatti in 1971, is now being produced again by Astep, an Italian lighting brand founded by Alessandro Sarfatti, Gino's grandson.
The Model 262 represents the essence of industrial minimalism with its striking simplicity. The lamp features an aluminum reflector paired with a single bulb, creating a boldly modern and industrial aesthetic. The spun aluminum was intentionally left unpolished, showcasing its production method as part of the design philosophy. The only element designed to prevent glare was a mirrored coating applied to the top half of the bulb, demonstrating Sarfatti's thoughtful approach to both form and function.
The lamp's versatility was another key feature, as it could be mounted either on walls or ceilings, making it suitable for various interior applications. This adaptability, combined with its clean lines and industrial materials, made it a standout piece in the early 1970s design landscape.
The Model 262 was created during the later stages of Gino Sarfatti's illustrious career when he was 58 years old. However, the lamp's commercial life was unexpectedly short-lived. In 1973, just two years after the Model 262's debut, Sarfatti made the decision to retire and sold his company, Arteluce, to Flos, a competitor and former rival in the lighting industry. Following the acquisition, Flos chose to discontinue the Model 262, effectively removing it from the market after only two years of availability.
Now, decades later, the Model 262 has found new life through family legacy. Alessandro Sarfatti's company Astep has brought the lamp back into production, staying true to the original design while making one crucial update for modern times. The only component that Gino Sarfatti wouldn't recognize in the revived version is the bulb, which has been upgraded from the original incandescent to energy-efficient LED technology.
The revival of the Model 262 represents both a tribute to Italian design heritage and a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted minimalist industrial design. Through Astep's efforts, a new generation of design enthusiasts can now experience this piece of lighting history that was previously available for such a brief period in the early 1970s.
