Flos Taraxacum 1: A Masterpiece of Timeless Design and Illuminating Beauty

Introduction

Flos Taraxacum 1 is a stunning piece of lighting design created by Achille Castiglioni in 1960. Its name, which means “dandelion” in Latin, reflects its appearance – a spherical assembly of light bulbs that resembles the delicate, white puff of a dandelion gone to seed. The Flos Taraxacum 1 is a timeless piece that has been able to withstand the test of time as a beautiful and functional art piece, while providing illumination.

The Design

The Flos Taraxacum 1 is a modern lighting fixture that is designed to provide illumination while serving as a decorative piece in any space. The lamp comprises of a cluster of 20 or 24 polycarbonate spheres that are fitted with either halogen or LED bulbs. The bulbs are evenly distributed throughout the lamp to ensure that the light is evenly spread.

The lamp’s design is meant to evoke the lightness and delicacy of a dandelion seedhead. To achieve this effect, the bulbs are arranged in such a way that they seem to float in midair, with the polycarbonate spheres serving as a protective enclosure that diffuses the light.

Functionality

The Flos Taraxacum 1 is not only a beautiful piece of contemporary design but also highly functional. The high wattage bulbs and wide distribution of light ensure a bright, even light that is perfect for large spaces. The lamp’s diffused light creates a soft glow that is ideal for use in living rooms or dining areas, providing a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

The Flos Taraxacum 1’s design is also highly practical. The lamp can be adjusted to suit different lighting requirements, with the option to tweak the brightness by adjusting the intensity of the bulbs. Additionally, the lamp can be easily cleaned and maintained, with the polycarbonate spheres being dishwasher safe.

Achievements

The Flos Taraxacum 1 has received several awards and recognition for its innovation and design. In 1965, it won the prestigious Compasso d’Oro award in Italy, and it has been recognized as a design icon by institutions like the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris.