Mid-century lighting by Gaetano Sciolari (Italy)

Gaetano Sciolari was an Italian lighting designer who is best known for his mid-century modern designs. He was born in Rome in 1927 and studied architecture at the University of Rome. After graduating, he worked as a filmmaker for a short time before joining the family business, Sciolari Lighting, in 1949.

Sciolari quickly became the head of the company and began to design his own lighting fixtures. His early work was inspired by Art Deco and Italian futurism, but he soon developed his own unique style that was characterized by its geometric forms and use of metal.

In the 1950s, Sciolari began working with the Italian manufacturer Stilnovo. It was during this time that he created some of his most iconic designs, including the Chandelier 267, the Chandelier 272, and the 4079 Floor Lamp. These fixtures were characterized by their use of chrome and brass, their sculptural forms, and more... their innovative use of light.

Sciolari continued to design lighting fixtures for Stilnovo until the company closed in 1972. He then went on to work with other manufacturers, including Boulanger and Stilkrone. He continued to design until his death in 1994. less...