Image source: Flos — Gatto
© Flos and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research.
Gatto
The Castiglionis' 1960 Cocoon table lamp: a resin-sprayed steel frame glowing with diffused light.
140 × 560 × 350 mm
1960
Official product information
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Description
Overview
Gatto is a sculptural table lamp designed by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in 1960 and produced by Flos. Flos describes a table lamp emitting diffused light from within a white powder-coated steel structure, and the Italian word for "cat" gave it its name. It is offered in White, and the page also lists a smaller Gatto Piccolo.
Construction
The structure is white powder-coated steel, sprayed with a unique Cocoon resin that forms the diffuser and protected with a transparent spray finish. The cable carries an electronic dimmer. Flos lists the construction materials as Cocoon resin and steel.
Specifications
- Dimensions (F2601009, EU): width 140 mm, length 350 mm, height 560 mm; weight 1.65 kg
- Light source: 1 bulb, E27 lamp holder (E26 on the US version), 60 W, light source not included
- Electrical (EU): 220-240 V, integrated dimmer, plug type C
- Cord: white, 1800 mm
- Environment: indoor dry location, IP20
Story
The Cocoon technique
Flos says Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni began experimenting with the Cocoon technique in the 1950s after discovering its use in industrial applications. In it a steel frame is sprayed with a soft, web-like resin, and the result is a delicate yet durable surface that diffuses a warm, ambient glow.
A lamp named for the cat
Flos writes that Gatto, named after the Italian word for cat, brings a quiet, luminous presence to any space. The product is dated to 1960 and is listed with a smaller companion, Gatto Piccolo.
More by Achille Castiglioni
Mezzadro Stool
A tractor seat on a sprung steel stem: the Castiglionis' 1957 ready-made stool
Snoopy Table Lamp
A tilted enamelled shade balanced on a slanted Carrara marble block, 1967
Taccia Table Lamp
An upturned ceiling lamp: glass bowl and white reflector on a fluted aluminium base, 1962
Leonardo
Achille Castiglioni's 1969 beech trestle work table with adjustable height
Collection
Castiglioni Collection
Lamps by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni for Flos: the ready-made Toio floor lamp (1962), the Cocoon resin Gatto (1960) and Parentesi with Pio Manzù.
