Italian ‘Profiterole’ Lamp by Sergio Asti for Martinelli Luce, 1968
The ‘Profiterole’ lamp by Sergio Asti is a rare and playful icon of Italian modernism. Designed in 1968 for Martinelli Luce, this original piece blurs the line between light and object—its bulbous, dessert-like silhouette a nod to the decadence of its namesake.
Crafted primarily from fiberglass, the lamp’s glossy, golden-toned body resembles a cloud of stacked choux pastry forms. The composition is unified by a black plastic ring that connects its two hemispheres. Whether used as a floor lamp or an oversized table light, its diffused glow and sculptural form bring a bold, space-age character to any interior.
The collaboration between Sergio Asti and Martinelli Luce marks a compelling intersection of sculptural form and forward-thinking lighting technology. Asti, known for his rigorous yet playful design language, found a natural partner in Martinelli Luce—a company at the forefront of Italian lighting innovation in the postwar period.
Founded in 1950 by Elio Martinelli, the brand quickly became a platform for architects and industrial designers experimenting with new materials and production methods. Asti’s work with Martinelli Luce in the 1960s exemplifies this spirit. He brought a conceptual, often whimsical approach to lighting—treating lamps not just as fixtures but as functional sculpture
DIMENSIONS: 23"W x 23"D x 16"H
ORIGIN: Italy
PERIOD: 1960s
MATERIALS: Fiberglass,Plastic
CONDITION:
To view items in our showroom, visit us Monday - Friday 10-6pm and Saturday 11-5pm. No appointment is needed. See more information on our Showroom location and hours here. Virtual viewings available.
Our Warehouse is located 10 minutes south of our showroom. To view this item, please schedule an appointment with us here. Virtual viewings available.
White Glove Service ensures items are delivered to your home by appointment, directly to your preferred room (including one flight of stairs). Items will be unpacked, placed where you specify, and all packaging debris will be removed from your home. Note that international shipments will be delivered to your door only.
When your item is ready for delivery, an agent will reach out to arrange an appointment within a four-hour delivery window. Rural deliveries may have fewer routes available, potentially extending delivery times.
To prepare for delivery, please be available during the scheduled window to provide a signature upon receipt. Ensure there is a clear path for the delivery team to navigate to the desired room. Our delivery team cannot move existing furniture within your home.
__________
All Domestic US shipping is by UPS, USPS or Fed Ex and In Stock Inventory will be fulfilled within 5-7 business days (excluding holidays)
International Delivery addresses will require a quote; please contact us here for an International Shipping Quote. International Delivery will not populate at Checkout; the cost of Shipping is not included in the purchase price.
UPS Ground shipping rates are calculated based on the original retail price/full order value of eligible items.
View our shipping policies here.
Local Delivery: If your delivery address is within a 20 mile radius of Chicago, 60642, Local Delivery charges will apply at checkout.
Local Pickup: Please contact us to schedule an appointment for your pickup, so our team can have your purchase ready.
