176 - Bruno Gatta (1904–1976)

Bruno Gatta (1904–1976) Model 1158 Pendant Light Black-lacquered aluminum, polished aluminum, chrome-plated brass components, and opaline glass shade Stilnovo Edition Date of creation: circa 1958–1962 H85 D69 cm Condition: Very good overall condition, shows signs of use. Electrical system should be inspected in accordance with current standards. A rare Model 1158 pendant light designed by Bruno Gatta and produced by Stilnovo, an iconic figure in postwar Italian design. This pendant lamp perfectly illustrates the formal language developed by Gatta in the late 1950s: a graphic composition of stacked circular reflectors in black-lacquered metal, accentuated by a structure of aluminum and chrome-plated brass, paired with a hemispherical opaline glass shade. This lighting architecture provides a particularly soft indirect glow while minimizing glare—a hallmark of Stilnovo’s most iconic creations. Founded in Milan in 1946 by Bruno Gatta, Stilnovo quickly established itself as one of the leading Italian lighting manufacturers. The company went on to collaborate with the era’s leading designers, including Joe Colombo, Ettore Sottsass, Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, and Gae Aulenti. The 1158 model remains one of the most sought-after pendant lights from the brand’s historic collection.