Vintage Italian Chrome Sputnik by Sciolari, circa 1970s

Sciolari Lighting was the first Italian lighting company to sell its pieces in the United States. Its luminous work spanned decades of styles and innovative designs, including striking chandeliers, table lamps and wall lights. 

Italian designer Angelo Gaetano Sciolari took over his family’s lighting company after his father’s death in 1949. He had studied architecture and was previously pursuing a career as a film director. In the 1950s, Sciolari became an in-house designer for Italian entrepreneur and designer Bruno Gatta and his lighting manufacturing company Stilnovo. 

By the late 1960s, Sciolari was using his own manufacturing company in combination with Lightolier to reach the American market. His 1970s designs are considered among his best work, including the Cubic Chandelier and other pieces from his Cubic Series, which featured in popular American television shows such as Dallas.

A talented designer, Sciolari preferred using crystal and glass with polished metals, including unconventional combinations like brass and chrome. He crossed many design styles and drew influence from art movements including Cubism, Deconstructivism and Minimalism. His later work, in collaboration with S.A. Boulanger and Stilkronen, involved Hollywood Regency-style fixtures, while his 1970s work reflected Art Deco influences and Space Age aesthetics.

On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage Sciolari Lighting chandeliers and pendants, floor lamps, table lamps and more.