Designed in 1972 by Richard Sapper, the Tizio 50 desk lamp has become a design icon, part of MoMA's permanent collection. Tizio has two articulated arms and a swivel head, all balanced by a varnished aluminium counterweight. The lamp's innovation lies in its design: a transformer is located in the base which switches the voltage from 230V to 12V and powers a halogen source through current-conducting rods and buttons. It provides adjustable, direct light at two intensities. Tizio 50 is available in white or grey. It is also available in a micro version and with LED-powered light.
In 1959, Ernesto Gismondi combines engineering and design and founds Artemide. His motto “The Human Light” represents Man and his well-being, which are at the center of attention during the design of lighting. The brand Artemide very quickly becomes the leader of lighting design and its manufacturing. The publishing house Artemide invests from its beginnings in international groups such as “Memphis” by Ettore Sotsass, a forerunner in the manufacturing of contemporary lighting. Artemide chains collaborations and the successes multiply with: the Nessino Artemide lamp, designed by Giancarlo Mattioli, the Artemide suspension, and the Artemide desk lamp is also part of these iconic creations by Artemide, combining innovative design and retro style from the 70s.