Gino Sarfatti

Gino Sarfatti 1912–1985

Born in Venice in 1912, Gino Sarfatti is today an internationally recognized architect and designer. He has played a significant role in Italy's industrial design history, designing over 700 different luminaires during his lifetime. At the age of 23, Sarfatti moved to Milan and it was here that he discovered lighting design, paving the way for his future career. Four years later, he founded the Arteluce brand, producing innovative lighting based on completely new design ideas.

In 1951, Arteluce opens its first store on Corso Littorio in Milan, now known as Corso Matteotti, designed by Marco Zanuso. In addition to the store, the brand also produces lighting for the residential and public sectors. Some of the most significant commissions include the Palazzo Bianco Museum in Genoa, the Castle Museum in Milan and the Eni Village in Corte di Cadore, but perhaps the most notable is the light installation in the main hall of the Teatro Regio in Turin called the Cloud.

Sarfatti's designs have received a number of awards. These include the Compasso d'oro in 1954 and 1955 and the Gran Prix at the Milan Triennale in 1954. In 1973, Sarfatti sold Arteluce to Flos and retired to his home in Griante on Lake Como. After his death in 1985, he is still celebrated around the world. His 2097 Sarfatti chandelier is a true design classic and one of the most popular chandeliers on the market.