alessandro zambelli transforms beetle anatomy into table lamp for .exnovo

alessandro zambelli transforms beetle anatomy into table lamp for .exnovo
all images courtesy of alessandro zambelli

according to alessandro zambelli, ‘infinite smallness sometimes opens into infinite universes. take entomology, for example. despite its classification systems, it never loses touch with the beauty and magic of discovery.’ zambelli takes this strict discipline’s hidden charm as the starting point for ‘maggiolina’, a collection of table lamps and wall lights from .exnovo on preview at maison et objet (hall 8, stand C19).

the design makes an allusion to story of ‘the metamorphosis’ by franz kafka

the italian designer laces the wonder of science with fantasy by making an allusion to ‘the metamorphosis’ of franz kafka, whose character wakes up transformed into an ungainly little creature. in this project, kafka’s tale influences another, progressive evolution – just as surreal, but playful and absorbing too: a beetle becomes a lamp. through the rotund shape of the sinterized polyamide diffuser, we can make out the polished shell of the forewings, ready to reveal the source of illuminance within.

the product measures 14.8 cm wide by 15.3 cm high and is 11.5 cm deep

partially formed using 3D printing, the hand-made ceramic base hints at parts and likenesses attributable to the scarabaeidae family. available in white, light blue, marsala, and mustard, the designs meld technical rigor with imagination, calculation with awe. as a result, ‘maggiolina’ is solid but intangible, compact but lightweight. the product measures 14.8 cm wide by 15.3 cm high and is 11.5 cm deep. it is suitable for use with an E14, 3 W fluorescent bulb.

the work is suitable for use with an E14, 3 W fluorescent bulb.

innovative technology and handicraft, digital manufacture and analog accuracy stand in tension as the project reveals another metamorphosis, inherent in its creation. ‘all .exnovo products are an apparent marriage of opposites: technology at the service of craftsmanship in unique synthesis,’ explains zambelli. ‘manufacturing excellence is the keynote of the resultant collections, as mass production is transformed into limited editions and one-offs.’

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.