Exceptional and extremely rare luminous object designed by Aldo Tura in the 1950s, this sculptural table lamp in the form of a snail fully embodies the experimental and visionary spirit of the Milanese designer, renowned for his creations poised between art and design.
Crafted from finely sculpted solid wood, the structure takes on the fluid and poetic shape of a snail, whose shell is entirely clad in natural parchment (goatskin), displaying extraordinary material nuances and a warm, velvety patina.
The snail elegantly supports a lantern made of wood and burnished brass, inside which a paper shade diffuses a soft, amber light, enhancing the dreamlike atmosphere of the piece.
The entire object stands as a masterful example of Aldo Tura’s formal and material research, for which he is celebrated, particularly his use of unconventional materials and his almost artistic approach to furniture and lighting.
His creations are now exhibited in major international museums, including the Brooklyn Museum in New York, and are increasingly sought after by collectors, curators, and specialised galleries.
This lamp, a unique piece currently on the market, is not documented as part of any serial production and is presented in impeccable vintage condition.
A true collector’s work, perfect for sophisticated interiors, theatrical everyday settings, or installations dedicated to post-war Italian design.
Product Name: Sculptural Lamp by Aldo Tura, Italy, mid-1950s
Designer: Aldo Tura
Year of Design: 1950s
Style: Post-war Italian design, experimental and visionary
Primary Materials: Sculpted solid wood, natural parchment (goatskin), burnished brass, paper
Distinctive Design: Snail-shaped structure with a parchment-clad shell and lantern featuring a paper shade that diffuses a warm, amber light
Dimensions: Height 23.5cm | Length 35cm | Depth 15cm
Typical Use: Decorative table lamp for sophisticated and eclectic interiors
Design Icon: Representative work of Aldo Tura’s material and formal poetics
Versatility: Ideal for eclectic interiors and historical design collections
Current Condition: Excellent vintage condition
Additional Notes: Please note that this object is in excellent vintage condition. Minor signs of age may be present and do not affect its functionality.
Aldo Tura (1909–1963) was a renowned Italian designer and craftsman known for his significant contribution to twentieth-century design. His career focused primarily on the production of furniture and decorative objects, and he founded the company “Tura Milano,” which became famous for creating pieces of exceptional quality and a highly distinctive style.
Tura’s production ranged from furniture to smaller objects such as trays and lamps, often characterised by the use of refined materials including parchment, leather, and brass. His designs are noted for their fusion of classical elegance and modernity, with particular attention to artisanal detail.
The 1960s were a particularly significant period for Aldo Tura, and many of his works from that decade remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of vintage design. His work helped define the Italian style in furniture and decorative arts, and his legacy continues to influence the world of design today.