Diabolo Bedside Table Lamp

Materials: Oval brass base with a built-in switch. White and dark-blue painted brass flowers. Brass curved, folded rod and parts. Brass joint. Light-blue painted aluminium diabolo lampshade, painted white inside. Brass decoration. Brass E14 socket with a porcelain ring.

Lampshade: ∅ 9 & 5,5 cm / 3.54” & 2.16”

Height: 23 cm / 9.05”

Width: ∅ 15 cm / 5.90”

Electricity: 1 bulb E14, 1 x 40 watt maximum, 110/220 volt.
Any type of light bulb can be used, but a small light bulb is preferred.

Period: 1950s – Mid-Century Modern.

Designer: To be appraised.

Manufacturer: To be appraised.

Other versions: This diabolo bedside table lamp exists in all probability in several colours.

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Diabolo

Diabolo is the name given to the shape of the lampshade. The diabolo lampshades were very popular in the 1950s. You can find several examples on Vintageinfo.

The diabolo, some yo-yo, has it’s origin in China. It’s a double-coned bobbin that can be twirled, tossed, and caught on a string secured by two sticks, one held in each hand. The first diabolo’s were made of bamboo and they made some whistling sound.

In the eighteenth century, the diabolo became known in England and France. 

The term “diabolo” was made up by French engineer Gustave Phillippart, who developed the modern diabolo in the early twentieth century and then was re-released. Since then, it has been widespread.

VLM Components

The wiring, plug, switch and socket are Italian and they are made by VLM Components from Buccinasco near Milan in the 1950s. The company became famous for the switches they produce since 1968, designed by Achille Castiglioni.

VLM is part of the Relco Group, founded in 1967. Today they are the owners of the brands Relco, Leuci, Relco Lighting, VLM and Segno.