Iconic 1981 Memphis Milano 'Ashoka' Lamp by Ettore Sottsass (1917-2007)

A quintessential totem of the Postmodern movement, the ‘Ashoka’ table lamp stands as one of Ettore Sottsass’s most sculptural contributions to the founding Memphis Milano collection. This piece captures the very spirit of the Memphis philosophy: a radical departure from functionalism into a realm of exuberant color, geometric wit, and historical allusion.

Constructed from polychrome powder-coated metal, the lamp’s architecture aligns closely with Sottsass’s celebrated furniture designs, sharing the bold, stacked language of the iconic 'Carlton' room divider and 'Casablanca' sideboard. Its silhouette is a masterclass in balance and asymmetry, featuring a striking collage of pastel pinks, primary blues, and industrial yellows, crowned by undulating green arms holding exposed bulbs.

The title ‘Ashoka’ references the legendary Buddhist emperor, whose name translates to "without sorrow." Sottsass interprets this ancient spirituality through a distinctly 1980s lens; the semicircular arches and ascending geometry echo the forms of Buddhist stupas and reliquaries, merging sacred architecture with pop-art aesthetics. It acts less as a utilitarian light source and more as an illuminated sculpture—a technological reliquary reimagined through an industrial medium.

Further cementing its cultural significance, the 'Ashoka' lamp was a cherished piece in the esteemed personal art collection of David Bowie, a celebrated patron of the Memphis Group. Bowie famously articulated his connection to such radical designs, stating, "My Memphis furniture… is an emotional reaction; I find it impossible to put a rational argument forward for buying it." This particular lamp embodies that very spirit of emotional, groundbreaking design that captivated one of the 20th century's most iconic figures.

This example is in great vintage condition, retaining the original "Memphis Milano / Ettore Sottsass / 1981 / Made in Italy" silver foil label on the underside. The polychrome finish is vibrant, showing only minor surface scratches consistent with age and careful use. It has been wired for use with US plugs.

Italian

1981