Rico Baltensweiler (1920-1987) & Rosmarie Baltensweiler (1927-2020) for Baltensweiler
TYPE 600 articulating floor lamp
Switzerland, 1950s
chrome-plated steel, enameled steel, enameled aluminum
cast numbers to base plate
as pictured: 54"w x 15 1/4"d x 57"h

Catalog Note:
Innovative Swiss lighting designers Rico and Rosmarie Baltensweiler first produced their signature TYPE 600 articulating floor lamp in 1951 when they were unsatisfied with the, largely Italian, options available at the time. Because Rico was an electrical engineer and Rosmarie an interior designer, the couple was able to pair form and function in an artful way.

As demand for the sleek, adjustable TYPE 600 lamp grew, the Baltensweilers decided to found their family-run lighting firm, which has been operating for over 70 years now and is in its third generation.

In 1956, Le Corbusier installed aTYPE 600 is his apartment and then, in 1958, French filmmaker Jacques Tati selected the TYPE 600 as part of the minimalist decor for Villa Arpel in his modernist satire, Mon Oncle — both of which helped make the floor lamp a permanent part of the landscape of mid-century design.

Minor light patination and signs of age throughout. Very slight bends and enamel losses to outer rim of shade. Tested and working. Very good overall vintage condition.