In the vibrant tapestry of mid-20th century Italian design, few figures stand as prominently as Bobo Piccoli. Born in 1927, Piccoli was not just a designer but a true Renaissance man, whose creative endeavours spanned painting, sculpture, and architecture. His work, deeply influenced by Greek art and the Renaissance masters, found a unique expression in the seamless integration of these disciplines. Piccoli's intellectual pursuits and artistic collaborations made him a key figure in Milan's cultural scene, where his legacy continues to resonate.
A Multidisciplinary Maestro
Piccoli's journey through the arts was nothing short of extraordinary. He was a connoisseur of ancient Greek art and Renaissance masterpieces, two influences that profoundly shaped his aesthetic sensibilities. His multidisciplinary approach was not just a reflection of his diverse interests but also a testament to his ability to transcend conventional boundaries.
Piccoli's collaborations with renowned architects on iconic projects like the Petrolchimico di Brindisi and Palazzo delle Stelline are prime examples of how he infused his architectural ventures with artistic finesse.
However, it was his collaboration with FontanaArte that truly cemented his place in design history. FontanaArte, a legendary name in the world of Italian lighting, recognised Piccoli's unique talent and gave him a platform to bring his artistic visions to life. This partnership led to the creation of some of the most iconic lighting designs of the 20th century, most notably the Re and Regina lamps.
The Iconic Re and Regina Lamps
In 1968, Bobo Piccoli unveiled the Re and Regina lamps, designs that would become synonymous with Italian design excellence. These lamps were not just functional objects but sculptural masterpieces, inspired by the timeless game of chess. The Re (King) and Regina (Queen) lamps were crafted with an eye for both form and function, embodying the perfect balance between utility and art that Piccoli mastered so well.
The design of the Re Floor Lamp and Regina Table lamp is a study in elegant simplicity. The Re lamp, with its vertical form, represents the king on the chessboard, while the horizontal Regina lamp embodies the queen. Both lamps are characterised by their sinuous shapes, which alternate between spheres, cylinders, and rings of light.
These forms are not only visually striking but also serve to diffuse light in a way that creates a soft, ambient glow. The opalescent glass diffusers emit a gentle white light, accentuating the lamps' graceful profiles and making them versatile enough to complement any interior setting.One of the most innovative features of these lamps is the dimmer function, which allows users to modulate the intensity of the light. This capability makes the Re and Regina lamps more than just sources of illumination; they become tools for creating atmosphere, transforming any space into a realm of artistry and imagination.
A Lasting Legacy
The Re and Regina lamps were more than just popular; they became iconic symbols of Italian design. Their ability to be used as both floor and table lamps, coupled with their sculptural beauty, made them coveted pieces in homes and galleries alike. Customers often placed them side by side or scattered them throughout a room, using their versatility to create different lighting effects.
In 2020, FontanaArte decided to re-release these iconic lamps as a tribute to Bobo Piccoli's enduring influence on the world of design. This re-release was not just a nod to nostalgia but a recognition of the timeless appeal of Piccoli's work. The Re and Regina lamps continue to be celebrated for their ability to merge form and function, serving as a testament to Piccoli's genius.
In Conclusion, It's not just a light
Bobo Piccoli's Re and Regina lamps are more than just lighting fixtures; they are works of art that capture the essence of Italian design. Inspired by the strategic elegance of chess, these lamps bring a touch of sophistication to any space, whether used as a table lamp or a floor lamp. Piccoli's ability to infuse everyday objects with artistic value has left an indelible mark on the design world, ensuring that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
The Re and Regina lamps stand as a shining example of how design can elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary, transforming simple light into a source of beauty and inspiration.
