An icon reinterpreted in a Pop key

The iconic Pipistrello lamp designed by Gae Aulenti for Martinelli Luce has been reinterpreted in a new Pop version tinted with a bright, vivid, graphic yellow

Pipistrello Pop by Martinelli Luce, design Gae Aulenti - Archivi Gae Aulenti, Milan
Pipistrello Pop by Martinelli Luce, design Gae Aulenti - Archivi Gae Aulenti, Milan

In homage to the designer who designed it in 1965, the Pipistrello lamp has been presented in a little-known place in Milan: the Gae Aulenti Archive. Next to what was once the Milanese architect’s studio, in Piazza Sam Marco, but with access from the opposite side of the street, in Via Fiori Oscuri, was her home, which today houses her archive, managed by her granddaughter Nina, and open to the public by appointment. In this setting, which allows a dip back in history, Pipistrello Pop was launched, the latest version of the iconic table lamp, reinterpreted in a pop key with a bright, full yellow.

The base cone is yellow, while the details are black. A ‘bold’ finish to draw attention to the small features that give the lamp its graphic appearance. In this edition, Gae Aulenti’s signature, which is lightly engraved on the top of the telescope in the original Pipistrello, is located on a shining black plaque that is applied to the base cone along with the progressive numbering, further personalizing it. A value that stands out as strongly as the Pipistrello Pop’s personality.

The stainless-steel telescope’s Martinelli Luce logo is highlighted in a black finish. The certificate of authenticity comes, as always, with this iconic lamp. The choice of a vibrant yellow keeps the originality and innovative character of the original Bat intact, emphasising aspects that speak of vitality, energy and creative drive.

The lamp fits well in lively spaces and colors neutral settings, generating a visual contrast that affects perception. It becomes the center of attention for everything around it. “I love yellow because it is a sunny color that inspires optimism, light, and energy”, says Emiliana Martinelli, second generation of the family business. “It’s a color I identify with because some of its connotations reflect part of my character. Yellow is also the color of friendship, just like the one that linked me to Gae Aulenti whom I met as a child. She frequently used red, but I also know that she liked yellow, a warm and sunny color. Since we have already edited the Ruspa lamp in this color, why not Pipistrello too? Yes, but… in a Pop key!”