Ettore Sottsass Sinus Table Lamp: A 1972 Design Icon

This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.

Ettore Sottsass 'Sinus' Table Lamp for Stilnovo, 1972
Ettore Sottsass ‘Sinus’ Table Lamp for Stilnovo, 1972

The Sinus table lamp, designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1972, exemplifies his ability to infuse everyday objects with bold, sculptural aesthetics. Its undulating form and row of silvered bulbs evoke the glamour of Hollywood dressing rooms, while its compact size allows for versatile placement, either vertically or horizontally. Crafted from injection-moulded ABS plastic—a cutting-edge material at the time—the Sinus lamp reflects Sottsass’s innovative use of new materials and production techniques. This design not only showcases his interest in popular culture iconography but also demonstrates his skill in creating functional objects that double as art pieces. (1stDibs)


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