Ooooh LA LA!!! This table lamp is MAGNIFIQUE!!!! Yes, it certainly is!!! AND It’s a confirmed Bitossi 1963 ORIGINAL!!! This is an absolutely stunning vintage Mid-Century Modern Italian Rimini Ambra Series pottery table lamp by Aldo Londi for Bitossi & Raymor. It is labeled “Made in Italy” and #3065 found on the base under the felt. The Rimini Series has become a cultural symbol in Italy and a recognition of Italian influence in the world of art and design. The Rimini Series has evolved with numerous color variations and this lamp is a gorgeous “Ambra” or Amber embellished with precisely incised or inscribed abstract motifs, graphic designs, and geometric shapes surrounding the cylindrical body. A fantastic expression of Aldo Londi’s iconic stylistic language!! The top and base of the body are slightly recessed, and it retains the original patinated brass neck, has been totally rewired and given a new socket, plug, harp, and cord AND it is topped with a new off-white faux silk drum shade. CARINA!! (That’s Italian for NICE!!) It will be beautiful on a sofa table in your living room, on an accent table in the sitting room, or on a nightstand in your bedroom. It is sure to exude just the right ambience and will be marvelous in any room that needs a touch of Italian Mid-Century Modern magnificence!!!
Aldo Londi, 1911-2003, was a painter, sculptor and ceramicist. He devoted his entire life to art. After being a POW in Africa during WWII, he went to work for Bitossi Ceremiche. In 1946 he became Art Director. He ended his reign as Art Director in 1976 but continued contributing till his death in 2003. His designs were wonderful but his skill with developing glazes was exceptional! His work is an iconic staple in Italian design to date.
Although the Bitossi family had been making art pottery since the mid-19th century, it was not incorporated until 1921 when done so by Guido Bitossi. They always did well, but when Aldo Londi joined them with his talent and mindset they flourished. Londi not only developed glazes and whimsical animal figures but brought other influential and experimental designers on board. They continue today producing beautiful pieces designed by the likes of not only Londi but Sottsass, Bocini, and Rashid.
Raymor was built by the American entrepreneur Irving Richards in 1941. He became one of the most influential figures in mid-late 20th century design and was at the cutting edge of popular American tastes during the period. He began his business life in 1926 selling used books in Mahattan, NY and later moved on to form a relationship with designer Russel Wright. This led to the formation of Russel Wright Inc. on March 10th, 1936. In 1941, the Wrights sold their share of the Wright Accessories business to Richards, with the proviso that Richards help them with their ‘American Way Program’ of supporting new American designers. He did this, but it was ultimately unsuccessful. Following the sale, Wright Accessories Inc. was renamed Raymor Mfg Division Inc. on February 19th, 1941, and Raymor was born. In 1963, Raymor was sold to furniture company Simmons, which itself was later sold to Gulf & Western. The company name was changed to Raymor Richards, Morgenthau Inc. on December 15th,1969. During the mid-late 1960s and early 1970s, Richards was placed in charge of furniture. He strictly controlled the outcome by taking part in every part of the decision process, but always took advice from Bagni, Londi, or their equivalents. Richards was also instrumental in introducing Ettore Sottsass to ceramics around 1956, placing him firmly under the wing of Aldo Londi at Bitossi. Irvine Richards retired from Raymor sometime in 1970. Credit to: Mark Hill Publishing.
This Original 1963 Bitossi Rimini Ambra Series Italian pottery table lamp by Aldo Londi is…. BELLISSIMA!!! You simply MUST have it!!!!! Light up your life today and make it YOURS!!!
