Tronconi Virgilio Milano – Orange-Red Adjustable Desk Lamp – Italian Mid-Century Design – c. 1960s Original vintage Italian adjustable desk lamp bearing the original “TRONCONI VIRGILIO – MILANO” manufacturer’s label. A distinctive example of Italian post-war lighting, this lamp combines a highly sculptural silhouette with the robust and functional construction typical of mid-century technical design. The lamp features a beautiful orange-red / vermilion painted metal finish, a warm and saturated tone between orange and red. Depending on the lighting conditions, the colour can appear slightly more orange or slightly more red, but vermilion / orange-red is the most accurate description. The vivid painted finish contrasts elegantly with the sweeping chrome-plated curved stem, giving the lamp a strong graphic and architectural presence. The large circular metal reflector measures approximately 26 cm in diameter and can be adjusted through the articulated mechanical joint at the top of the stem, allowing the direction of the light to be changed. The curved chrome support rises from the asymmetrical rounded base, creating a particularly elegant and recognisable profile. A small cream-coloured push-button switch is positioned on the upper part of the base and adds another characteristic period detail. Original Manufacturer’s Label The lamp retains its original metallic manufacturer’s label reading: TRONCONI VIRGILIO MILANO The surviving label is an important identifying feature and clearly connects the lamp with the Milanese manufacturer. Estimated Period Based on the construction, materials, mechanical articulation, pressed-metal body, chromed tubular stem and overall design language, the lamp can reasonably be dated to approximately the late 1950s–1960s, possibly extending into the early 1970s. An exact production year has not been documented, therefore the dating is deliberately presented as an estimate rather than as a definitive attribution. Construction and Design The underside reveals a substantial internal construction incorporating a heavy cast-metal support / counterweight, which gives the lamp stability despite the relatively tall curved stem and large reflector. The combination of painted metal, chrome-plated tubular elements and mechanical adjustment gives the lamp the solid and functional character associated with Italian post-war lighting. Its design sits between the traditional technical desk lamp and the more expressive Italian design language that developed during the 1960s. The exaggerated curved stem, large reflector and intense vermilion finish transform what is essentially a functional object into a highly decorative and sculptural piece. The lamp works particularly well in interiors inspired by: Italian Mid-Century Modern, Post-War Modernism and Industrial Design. When illuminated, the pale interior of the reflector creates a beautiful contrast with the orange-red exterior. Condition The lamp is preserved in authentic vintage condition, with visible traces of age and use consistent with an original period object. There are small scratches, marks, paint losses, patina and areas of oxidation, especially around the reflector edge, articulation points and chrome-plated components. These signs of age have not been concealed and contribute to the genuine vintage character of the lamp. Important condition note: The plastic cover underneath the base presents a break / damaged section, clearly visible in the photographs. The damage concerns the plastic underside cover. The original Tronconi Virgilio Milano manufacturer’s label is still present and legible. The electrical cable has been replaced at some point and is therefore not original to the lamp. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description and accurately document the cosmetic condition, signs of use and imperfections. Lighting and Electrical Details The lamp uses a standard E27 bulb fitting. The lamp has been tested and is shown working in the photographs. The electrical cable has been replaced. The light bulb shown in the photographs is used for demonstration purposes only and is NOT included in the sale. Due to the age of the item, as with all vintage electrical objects, inspection by a qualified professional is recommended before prolonged everyday use. Dimensions Maximum height when fully extended: approx. 60 cm Shade diameter: approx. 26 cm Base length: approx. 20 cm Maximum base width: approx. 13 cm Bulb fitting: E27 Materials: painted metal, chrome-plated metal, plastic components Colour: orange-red / vermilion with chrome and cream details Manufacturer: Tronconi Virgilio Marked: Tronconi Virgilio – Milano Country of origin: Italy Estimated period: late 1950s–1960s / possibly early 1970s What makes this example particularly appealing is the combination of its original Tronconi Virgilio Milano label, vivid vermilion / orange-red finish, large adjustable reflector, sweeping chrome stem and substantial period construction. Its sculptural profile gives the lamp a strong decorative presence even when switched off, making it much more than a purely functional desk lamp. It is an attractive piece of vintage Italian lighting with a distinctive colour, strong period character and an unmistakable mid-century presence. The item will be professionally packed using appropriate protective materials and double-boxed where necessary for safe transport. The item is handed over to the carrier in the same condition as documented in the photographs and description prior to dispatch. All vintage electrical items are tested before shipping when stated as working in the listing. Due to their age, vintage electrical items should always be checked by a qualified professional before prolonged or intensive everyday use. Light bulbs are not included unless explicitly stated otherwise. The buyer is responsible for providing a correct and complete shipping address and for collecting the parcel within the carrier’s specified timeframe if delivery to a collection point is required. In case of visible damage to the outer packaging upon delivery, the buyer is strongly advised to photograph the parcel before opening it and document the unpacking process. Please review all photographs carefully before bidding, as they form an integral part of the description and show the actual condition of the item, including signs of age, wear and imperfections.