The Taccia table lamp is a classic of great stature, designed in 1962 by Achille Castiglioni and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni for Flos . It is one of the absolute icons of Italian design and is still produced by Flos today, which perfectly illustrates how timeless and influential this design is.
The Taccia lamp is one of those icons that effortlessly transcends generations. A design that feels both technical and sculptural, powerful in form yet refined in appearance. The massive base supports the whole with conviction. Above it rests the distinctive, transparent glass shade, which captures the light and directs it back into the room in a soft, indirect way. The interplay between the clear glass and the solid base creates a fascinating contrast: light versus weight, transparency versus structure.
Flos describes the Taccia as a design that originated from the idea of placing a pendant lamp upside down on a table . MoMA also describes the model as an upside-down hanging lamp, in which the glass bowl and the reflector together create the characteristic, indirect light pattern. That conceptual starting point makes the lamp extra special: simultaneously ingenious, clear, and surprisingly self-evident.
This particular example is an early silver edition , featuring a patina that only enhances the design. The surfaces display natural aging that adds depth and character without detracting from the clarity of the whole. Moreover, it is the largest version , giving the lamp a distinct presence in the room. It doesn't just fill the space; it defines it. The proportions ensure that the light spreads widely and softly, while the form always remains central.
The glass shade enhances that sense of lightness and reflection, making this Taccia a perfect balance between technology and aesthetics.
The designers also lend extra weight to this piece. Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni are among the great names of post-war Italian design. Their collaboration for Flos produced several icons, and their work is recognized worldwide for its intelligence, functionality, and cultural impact.
An exceptional design object for those who love light sculptures with a strong history, a powerful design language, and a presence that never gets old.