Designed in 1972 by Richard Sapper, the Tizio 50 desk lamp has become a design icon, part of MoMA's permanent collection. Tizio has two articulated arms and a swivel head, all balanced by a varnished aluminium counterweight. The lamp's innovation lies in its design: a transformer is located in the base which switches the voltage from 230V to 12V and powers a halogen source through current-conducting rods and buttons. It provides adjustable, direct light at two intensities. Tizio 50 is available in white or grey. It is also available in a micro version and with LED-powered light.
In 1959, Ernesto Gismondi combined Engineering and Design and founded Artemide. His motto "The Human Light" represents humans and their well-being, and he centres his attention on both these things when designing lighting solutions. The Artemide brand rapidly became the leader in lighting design and manufacturing. As soon as it was set up, Artemide manufacturing was involved in international groups such as "Memphis" by Ettore Sotsass, a pioneer in the manufacture of contemporary lighting. Artemide entered into further collaborations and the successes mounted up. The brand represents the expertise and quality of Italian design, resulting in timeless creations that leave deep impressions and stand the test of time.