Parentesi On/Off pendant light

The Parentesi pendant lamp from Flos is an adjustable lighting fixture designed by Achille Castiglioni and Pio Manzù in 1971. It is based on a simple yet carefully considered system in which a shaped steel tube, either painted or nickel-plated, runs vertically along a cable tensioned between the floor and ceiling by a cast-iron counterweight.

The movable construction allows the light source to be positioned precisely where it is needed while maintaining a light, graphic appearance. The lamp head, made of black injection-moulded elastomer, houses the switch and creates a striking contrast with the metal surface. The design also allows for the addition of a second light source, providing greater flexibility in use. The Parentesi pendant lamp takes its name from the parenthesis-like shape created by the curved tube around the light source. The design was developed by Castiglioni from a sketch by Manzù and is credited to both designers. The fixture received the Compasso d’Oro award in 1979 and is included in the collections of several international design museums, including MoMA.