"Taccia" Table Lamp – Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni for Flos (Designed 1962)
Treat yourself to the absolute queen of Italian design: the monumental Taccia lamp. Conceived by brothers Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in 1962 for Flos, this timeless icon revolutionizes traditional lighting by creating a fascinating optical illusion. Evoking both a minimalist spotlight and an ancient column, its adjustable glass bell diffuses indirect light of unparalleled softness. A sculptural centerpiece with a stunning visual presence.
The Story of a Design Masterpiece
The Taccia lamp was born from the desire to reverse the classic structure of a table lamp by concealing the light source to eliminate any glare.
A Futuristic Roman Column: Its black anodized aluminum base (or silver depending on the version) features deep fluting. Originally designed as a radiator to dissipate the heat from the bulb, it's a post-modern nod to the columns of classical architecture.
An Adjustable Light Bell: The large transparent mouth-blown glass bowl (or PMMA depending on the edition) is simply placed on a chromed steel ring. This complete freedom of movement allows you to tilt the light beam as you wish.
Poetic Indirect Lighting: The bulb projects its light upwards, hitting the matte white lacquered metal disc that closes the bell. The result? A soft, subdued, and warm light that subtly bathes the room, as shown in the photo.
Features
Absolute Icon: Featured in the world's greatest museums (MoMA in New York, Triennale di Milano), it is the ultimate design investment.
Dual Identity: Spectacular when lit, it retains a phenomenal sculptural presence and incredible elegance when turned off.
Great Modularity: Perfect on a low side table, a large executive desk, or placed directly on the floor in a living room corner like an art spotlight.
Technical Specifications
Designers: Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni
Model: Taccia (Large Model)
Manufacturer: Flos (Italy)
Creation Date: 1962
Materials: Extruded and anodized aluminum base, white lacquered metal reflector, transparent blown glass bell (or high-quality plastic depending on edition).
Condition: In perfect condition
Dimensions: Total Height: 49 cm / Diffuser Diameter: Ø 37.5 cm
💡 Gallerist's Style Tip
"The Taccia has a strong architectural identity. It pairs divinely with clean and transparent surfaces such as a glass and steel coffee table or console. For an ultra-chic effect, place it slightly lower (on a low piece of furniture or on the floor): this will allow you to view the object from above and appreciate the perfection of its white reflector disc, while creating theatrical ambient lighting towards the ceiling."