Spotlight Design returns to Florence at Pandolfini on February 25 with a catalog of rarities of design of the 20th century.
The absolute protagonist is the lampada Pigeon by François-Xavier Lalanne, estimated at 15,000-20,000 euros. Also up for auction are works by Ingo Maurer, Lapo Binazzi, Gio Ponti, and Ettore Sottsass, as well as a refined table set by Fulvio Bianconi and Carlo Scarpa for Venini.
The event titled Spotlight design is organized by Pandolfini, the oldest Italian auction house, active since 1924 and among the national leaders in the art and design market.
The Pigeon lamp by Lalanne: estimate 15,000-20,000 euros
The most anticipated lot of Spotlight Design is the Pigeon table lamp model by François-Xavier Lalanne.
Made in bronze, copper, and glass, the work represents a perfect example of the Les Lalanne style. The estimate is between 15,000 and 20,000 euros.
The lamp combines function and sculpture. The animal becomes an illuminating body, with a language suspended between dream and reality. The metallic surfaces enhance the craftsmanship, while the glass diffuses a soft light.
The works of the duo Les Lalanne are today highly sought after by international collectors. Their surrealist furniture-sculptures are part of the most important private collections. This makes the Pigeon an iconic and recognizable piece, capable of attracting both enthusiasts of historical design and investors.
Author’s Lighting: Maurer, Binazzi and Studio A.R.D.I.T.I.
The auction dedicates ample space to the lighting sector, with high-quality lots and significant estimates.
Ingo Maurer, Uchiwa series – 10,000-15,000 euro
Among the standout pieces is a lamp from the Uchiwa series by Ingo Maurer.
Made in wood and rice paper, it is offered with an estimate of 10,000-15,000 euros. The model reflects the poetic approach of the German designer, known for experimentation with materials and visual lightness.
The rice paper creates a diffused and delicate effect. The wood ensures structure and formal warmth. A balance between craftsmanship and technological research.
Lapo Binazzi, floor lamp – 13,000-18,000 euros
In the catalog also a floor lamp by Lapo Binazzi.
Made in lacquered metal in shades of blue and orange, it incorporates a yellow neon. The estimate is 13,000-18,000 euros.
The piece reflects the radical and experimental language of Italian design from the Seventies. The color contrast and the use of neon highlight a strong visual identity.
Studio A.R.D.I.T.I., model Apus – 4,500-6,500 euros
Completes the lighting section the ceiling lamp model Apus by Studio A.R.D.I.T.I., dated 1975.
In metal, it is estimated at 4,500-6,500 euros. A significant example of Italian design from the Seventies, with essential lines and functional structure.
Ceramics and glass: Gambone, Bianconi and Scarpa
In addition to lighting, Spotlight Design offers lots in the field of 20th-century decorative arts.
Guido Gambone, ceramic pitcher – 3,000-5,000 euros
A standout is a 1955 pitcher by Guido Gambone.
The estimate is 3,000-5,000 euros. The work represents the material and chromatic research of the master, among the protagonists of Italian ceramics in the post-war period.
Bianconi and Scarpa for Venini – 5,000-7,000 euros
Very interesting the set for the table in white and red glass, designed by Fulvio Bianconi and Carlo Scarpa.
Produced by Venini around 1950, the service features decorative elements inspired by shells and corals. The estimate is 5,000-7,000 euros.
The glass alternates between transparencies and full colors. The collaboration between Bianconi and Scarpa is considered one of the most significant in the post-war Murano glass scene.
Spotlight Design: fourth edition of Pandolfini for a successful cycle
The appointment on February 25 in Florence represents the fourth chapter of the Spotlight Design cycle, inaugurated in 2023.
The objective is to enhance excellence and sophistication in 20th-century design and decorative arts. The catalog brings together great rarities and high-quality works signed by Italian and international designers.
Founded in 1924 in Florence, Pandolfini also has offices in Milan and Rome. Over time, it has expanded its departments, including antiques, paintings, furniture, jewelry, fine wines, archaeological finds, oriental and digital art.
The auction house has also developed the Pandolfini Live platform, which allows participation in real-time sales, expanding the audience of international buyers.
The Spotlight Design auction on February 25 confirms the growing interest in 20th-century historical design. The Pigeon lamp by Lalanne, with an estimate of up to 20,000 euros, leads a catalog rich in relevant names and iconic objects
The estimates, ranging from 3,000 to 20,000 euros, cover different market segments. This broadens the potential audience, from experienced collectors to new buyers.
The selection highlights a market attentive to quality, signature, and provenance. It remains to be seen if the awards will confirm expectations. The result of the auction will offer a concrete signal on the resilience of the design segment in 2025.
As expert in digital marketing, Amelia began working in the fintech sector in 2014 after writing her thesis on Bitcoin technology. Previously author for several international crypto-related magazines and CMO at Eidoo. She is now the co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Cryptonomist and Econique.
She is also a marketing teacher at Digital Coach in Milan and she published a book about NFTs for the Italian publishing house Mondadori, while she is also helping artists and company to entering in the sector. As advisor, Amelia is also involved in metaverse-related project such as The Nemesis and OVER.
