Model 600

Born in Venice in 1912, Gino Sarfatti is one of Italy’s most celebrated lighting designers. Over the course of his career, he designed more than 600 luminaires, revolutionizing traditional typologies with an innovative and experimental approach to material, form, and new lighting technology.

In 1939, Sarfatti founded the company Arteluce, later sold to Flos in 1973. Based in Milan, Arteluce produced a prolific line in lamps, while also providing bespoke lighting design for large-scale projects including Genoa’s Palazzo Bianco and Turin’s Teatro Regio.

In Flos and Bottega Veneta’s reinterpretation of the Model 600, the innovative leather base is developed in signature Bottega Veneta Intrecciato and in Intreccio Foulard editions.

Reflecting the innovative craft that is at the core of both companies, the lamp is equipped with the latest LED technology, while retaining the shape of the original light bulb.

Suitable for floor or table use, the lamp provides precise yet soft and relaxing lighting. It can emit direct or indirect light, depending on the angle of the reflector. The lamp is available in small and large editions, and in a variety of colourways, including black, grey, and signature Bottega Veneta green.

Models and finishes available

Matte Black and Parakeet finishes (Small model) and Thunder and Bright Red finishes (Large model) are available only at Flos.com, Flos DOS in Milan, Paris, Soho and bottegaveneta.com and Bottega Veneta stores.

** Emerald Green and Matte Black finishes (Large Model) are available only at bottegaveneta.com and Bottega Veneta stores.

Behind the design

Some accounts from the time claim that inspiration for the Model 600 came from a bag of hunting pellets. Others say it was also inspired by an ashtray designed to rest on the armrest of a chair, typical of the time, which Sarfatti recalled seeing at his grandmother's house.

In May 1968, the lamp was exhibited at the Milan Triennial XIV. Its remarkable and unprecedented functionality ensured that the Model 600 remained in production for a long time.

While many Gino Sarfatti designs still appear incredibly current, a contemporary re-release demands not only the adoption of the latest LED technology but also the use of modern materials and processes with a view to sustainability.