Missi Sissi Table Lamp – A Whimisical Design

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Miss Sissi Lamps designed by Phillippe Starck
Missi Sissi Table Lamp – Flickr

The Miss Sissi Table Lamp, replete with a mysterious name, is a signature Starck product: a clever reworking of an otherwise conventional design. Starck has an unfailing talent for taking an everyday object and investing it with wit and irony. Giving both direct and diffused light, this tiny lampโ€”only eleven inches in heightโ€”is available in white and a range of bright colours.ย 

It proved an immediate commercial success, becoming one of the best-known interior design accessories of the 1990s. The success of the tiny lamp lies in its ability to transform an everyday object into a playful and whimsical design statement. The lamp’s compact size belies its ability to provide direct and diffused light, making it a versatile addition to any space. Its availability in various bright colours adds charm, allowing it to inject a pop of colour into even the most neutral interiors.ย 

The lamp’s popularity in the 1990s was partly due to its ability to capture the zeitgeist of the era, with its emphasis on playfulness and irony. Today, it continues to be a beloved design classic, proving that investing in an everyday object with wit and humour can have lasting appeal. Whether used as a bedside lamp or as part of a larger lighting scheme, this tiny lamp will surely bring joy and personality to any space it inhabits. (Mcdermott, 2011)

Sources

Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing. https://amzn.to/3ElmSlL

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