designer unknown - Sputnik lamp.
Sputnik lamp 's/'s (app. 50CM long and app. 45CM wide, with a diameter of app. 50CM and in a real nice vintage and working condition) The name “Sputnik” refers to the first-ever satellite launched in by the Soviet Union, escalating Cold War tensions. Sputnik officially launched the Space Race that overtook America, leading to the creation of NASA and culminating in putting a man on the moon. The satellite was only about the size of a beach ball, and had four long antennae emanating from its sphere. The Sputnik ceiling light was part of the design period known as the Atomic Age. Designs from this period looked increasingly to science for their inspiration, as fear of atomic energy and nuclear disaster gripped the world (the atomic bomb was first tested in ). Everything from atoms to molecules to yes, satellites, found their way into people’s homes–and their screens. Remember The Jetsons? Same time period, same style. Looking at a Sputnik, I hope you can see these design influences–especially its resemblance to the Soviet satellite! Sources: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Design Within Reach, NY Times, Phillips Auctions, BINW, Annabode (Anna Smith) Read More