Design Story: Artemide Nesso lamp
At Davinis, we love unique design items with a story, objects that stand out, linger in your memory, and tell more than just their function. The Artemide Nesso lamp is one such design that naturally draws your gaze. Not only because of its striking shape and color, but especially because of the story behind its creation. In our design story, we take you through the history of the Nesso lamp and reveal why this design has become a true classic.
the story of the Nesso lamp
The Nesso lamp traces its origins back to the 1960s, a period when design, technology, and optimism went hand in hand. It was created by the Italian designer Giancarlo Mattioli, who at the time worked within the collective Gruppo Architetti Urbanisti Città Nuova. This group actively explored new ways to design lamps, taking an innovative approach to form, light, and material use.
The original Artemide Nesso design was inspired by the shape of a jellyfish. Mattioli and his team investigated how to create soft, diffused ambient light by largely concealing the light source. The result was a lamp with a flowing, organic form that distributes light evenly without glare, a radical departure from the industrial and functional lamps commonly used at the time.
Equally groundbreaking was the choice of materials. The Artemide Nesso lamp was the first lamp made entirely from plastic. In an era when lamps were mostly crafted from metal and glass, this was a bold move. The plastic enabled new forms, created a unique light diffusion, and allowed production in multiple colors. The combination of futuristic design and innovative materials made the Nesso a pioneering creation that quickly gained international recognition.
The project was a success and entered production in 1967 under the name Artemide Nesso. The lamp won numerous awards and became an icon of 1960s Italian design. More than half a century later, the Artemide Nesso lamp remains beloved worldwide and is celebrated as a symbol of timeless design.
From Nesso to Nessino
As a tribute to the original design, the Nessino lamp was later introduced. This smaller version retains all the characteristics of the original Nesso table lamp but is more compact, making it accessible to a wider audience.
There is a clear size difference between the original Artemide Nesso lamp and the smaller Nessino lamp. The Nesso measures 34 centimeters in height with a diameter of 54 centimeters, while the Nessino is more compact at 22.3 centimeters tall and 32 centimeters wide. This adjustment made the design more affordable and suitable for smaller spaces without compromising the character of the original. Thanks to this size, the Artemide Nessino can now be found in countless interiors around the world.
the designer behind the Nesso lamp
Giancarlo Mattioli was born in Bologna in 1933 and was much more than just a designer. He was an architect, urban planner, artist, and intellectual. From a young age, he developed a strong passion for drawing, which later played an important role in his design style. He studied architecture in Florence and, in 1961, founded the Urban Architects Group “Città Nuova” together with other professionals.
In 1965, Mattioli, along with this group, participated in a design competition organized by Artemide and Editrice Domus. The goal of the competition was to explore new ways of approaching lighting as a design object. The design that emerged from this, inspired by the shape of a jellyfish, would later evolve into the iconic Artemide Nesso lamp.
Mattioli was known for his ability to think outside the box. In addition to his work as a designer, he was also closely involved in the urban development of Bologna, contributing to various historical and urban planning projects. His work reflects a deep belief in the social value of design. Giancarlo Mattioli passed away in 2018, but his legacy lives on in designs such as the Nesso, which remains part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Colors of the Nessino table lamp
The Artemide Nessino table lamp is instantly recognizable by its color and shape. The most iconic version is undoubtedly the orange Artemide Nessino table lamp. This color was already used in the 1960s and symbolizes the optimism and experimental spirit of that era. In addition to orange, the Nessino is also available in white. Over the years, various special editions have been released in colors such as red, black, blue, green, light blue, purple, and yellow. If you see another color that is not officially offered, it is almost always a replica.
Light source in the Nessino lamp
The Nessino lamp is usually delivered without light bulbs. This can be disappointing when you buy a design lamp, as you naturally want it to shine immediately in your interior! For the lamp, you need four E14 bulbs with a maximum wattage of 18 watts each, or LED versions of about 5 watts each. Together, these provide a warm and diffuse light that perfectly complements the design of the lamp. The Nessino lamp is not dimmable by default, so choosing the right light color is important for achieving the desired atmosphere.
size of the nessino lamp
The Nessino lamp is designed as a more compact version of the original design. The Nessino has a height of 22.3 centimeters and a width of 32 centimeters, making it perfect for smaller tables, sideboards, or nightstands. The original Nesso lamp is significantly larger, with a height of 34 centimeters and a diameter of 54 centimeters.
nessino lamp in your interior
The Nessino lamp is surprisingly versatile and can be easily integrated into a variety of interior styles. In a sleek and minimalist interior, the lamp serves as a playful accent. Its round shape and striking color break up the clean lines and add warmth and energy without overpowering the space. Place the Nessino, for example, on a white sideboard or a simple desk to let the design truly shine.
In a retro or vintage interior, the Nessino feels right at home. Pair the lamp with other round shapes, warm wood tones, and materials such as chrome or formica to enhance the 1960s vibe. The iconic orange version complements earthy tones, browns, beiges, and deep greens often used in retro interiors.
The Nessino lamp also works well in an eclectic interior. By combining the lamp with different styles and materials, an exciting contrast is created that makes the design stand out even more. The color is also easier to style than you might think. Orange pairs surprisingly well with neutral shades such as white, gray, and black, but also with blue, purple, or soft pink for a bolder look.
the nessino lamp at davinis
At Davinis, we do not offer the Artemide Nessino lamp in our collection. For us, this lamp symbolizes why we love unique, colorful, and innovative design. It is a source of inspiration and a reminder of what design can be when creativity, technology, and boldness come together.
We focus on discovering the new Nesso’s of our time, design objects that are being developed now and that could grow into iconic classics in the future. We collaborate with brands and creators who experiment with new materials, sustainable production methods, and innovative designs. By including these products in our collection, we aim to support and nurture modern design and craftsmanship.
Curious about these extraordinary designs? Be sure to explore our collection and discover pieces that are not only beautiful but also tell a story and reflect the future of design.
