Appropriating the famed Hollywood logo of MGM Studios as the framework for this table lamp, Lapo Binazzi and the UFO collective removed “Leo the Lion” and replaced him with two bulbs and an umbrella. The ribbons of sheet steel used here are strictly decorative, in keeping with the Italian radical design movement’s emphasis on symbolism over function. The present example in sky blue is from the very first production of the model at the time of the Salone del Mobile, Milan, in 1971. Formerly in the collection of the late Jim Walrod, this lamp was signed by the artist on the occasion of R & Company’s 2016 exhibition on Binazzi and UFO.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, became the first American institution to acquire this lamp model as part of its recent acquisition of the Dennis Freedman Collection.
Lapo Binazzi. "MGM" table lamp in blue enameled steel.
Designed by Lapo Binazzi, Italy, 1969.
Produced by UFO, Italy.
39" L x 9" W x 21.5" H
TL664
