Pipistrello Lamp (Gae Aulenti): The Real Thing vs. the Replicas
The 1965 telescopic lamp by Gae Aulenti for Martinelli Luce. Spotting a real one — base, diffuser, markings — against the dupes.
“pipistrello dupe”, “pipistrello replica”: Gae Aulenti's little bat-lamp is copied everywhere. Here's how to recognise a genuine Martinelli Luce.
The original
Designed in 1965 by Gae Aulenti for Martinelli Luce: a lacquered aluminium base, a telescopic stem (height-adjustable), a methacrylate diffuser cut into wings.
Recognising a real one
The flared steel/aluminium base, heavy; the smooth telescopic mechanism; the quality opaline diffuser; the Martinelli Luce marking. Copies have a light base, a telescopic action that sticks, a yellowing plastic.
Sizes and colours
Available in several sizes and colours (white, black, and editions). A cheap fixed “Pipistrello” (non-telescopic) is a copy.
Spotted one in a window? Scan it on Beyit: original Martinelli or replica, and the budgets.
Les objets, à ton budget.
Chaque pièce citée, avec ses alternatives — du vintage au dupe.
Gallery · 5 images.
