Iconic Eyeball Lamp Classics: Italian Space Age Lighting Masterpieces
September 6, 2026
The Telegono lamp was conceived in the late 60s, but it is indeed an everlasting icon of 70s sparkling creativity. It was designed by Vico Magistretti in 1966 and produced by Artemide from 1968 until 1979, representing a true masterclass in Italian plastic engineering and interactive lighting design.
In this article, we’ll delve into the history and revolutionary design traits of the Telegono lamp, explore its dual nature as both functional object and dynamic sculpture, and share insights into its permanent presence in international museum collections.
Discover why this masterpiece by Vico Magistretti continues to captivate collectors and design enthusiasts across generations.
Like other Space Age creations, the innovation of this amazing desk lamp was twofold. On one side, the pioneering use of innovative materials like melamine and PMMA. On the other side, the ingenious combination of functional and intriguing shapes. The sculptural Telegono features a movable shell hinged to the plastic body, allowing for both direct and indirect lighting. As simple as ingenious!
*Featured Vintage Find:* Iconic '70s Space Age Lamp: Artemide Telegono → Exploring the masterclass of Italian plastic engineering, rare structural details, and original vintage catalogs.
Moreover, the base features a clever movable compartment that functions as a catchall tray, adding everyday convenience to this outstanding piece of design. The product name itself is highly creative: “Tele” evokes a telephone, while the suffix “gono” relates to geometry. Telegono stands as a true witness of Space Age design, deserving deep admiration from modern connoisseurs.
What truly sets the Telegono apart in the pantheon of mid-century lighting is its sophisticated interplay between geometry and user participation. Crafted primarily from high-grade ABS Marbon (often cataloged in striking finishes of white, black, red, and orange), the lamp defies the static nature typical of office lighting from that era.
The cylindrical body houses a spherical or semi-cylindrical shell that rotates smoothly on its axis. By simply shifting the angle of the outer shade, the user can transition effortlessly from a concentrated, direct workspace beam to a soft, diffused ambient glow that filters magically through the resin walls. This tactile responsiveness was a hallmark of Magistretti's design philosophy—objects were meant to be touched, adjusted, and actively lived with.
*Archive Spotlight:* Examining the precision engineering and structural integrity that allow the Telegono to remain fully functional after over half a century.
The Telegono was actually the leading edge of the Studio Collection – the premier series of Artemide design masterpieces, followed by other iconic creations like Nesso and Bacco. During the late 1960s and 1970s, the collaboration between Vico Magistretti and Artemide fundamentally transformed domestic illumination. Magistretti's genius lay in his ability to humanize industrial production. By introducing the adjustable shell, he granted users direct control over their lighting environment. Furthermore, the Telegono joined the IKEA catalogue in 1970, was awarded at the Wiener Mobelsalons International in Vienna, and is permanently preserved in the Archive & Collection of the IKEA Museum in Älmhult, Sweden.
Whether utilized as a statement desk piece or integrated into a curated postmodern setting, the Telegono lamp ensures your living space remains a striking testament to Italian design excellence and innovative 1970s craftsmanship.
A stunning Space Age suspension light capturing the chromatic and geometric essence of the decade.
View available piece →An absolute masterpiece signed by Magistretti himself, the perfect stylistic companion to the Telegono.
View available piece →Another rare gem of 1970s authored lighting characterized by unique, playful forms.
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