A rare 'Vademecum' table lamp designed by Joe Colombo for Kartell in 1969. Compact in scale, the lamp is crafted from molded black plastic and paired with a chrome-plated steel shade. The adjustable shade pivots smoothly at the joint, directing light forward for task use or angled for a softer ambient effect, while perforations along the metal surface softly diffuse light from within. Produced by Kartell during a formative period for the company, the Vademecum reflects the spirit of Italian modernism at the end of the 1960s—where new materials, movement, and utility were explored as integral parts of daily life. Born in Milan in 1930, designer Cesare “Joe” Colombo began his career in painting and sculpture, studying at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera in the early 1950s. He was an early member of the Movimento Nucleare, the avant-garde group led by Enrico Baj and Sergio Dangelo. In 1962, Colombo established his design studio in Milan, working across architecture and product design. His work is defined by bold forms and a forward-looking approach to technology, reimagining how objects function within modern living environments. Condition: Great vintage condition with light surface wear consistent with age and use. Minor scuffs and marks to the plastic and metal components. Professionally rewired by our team of restorationists with a new switch, plug, and sockets. Accepts two E12 light bulbs. Maker's mark present along the underside. Additional Dimensions: Dimensions were taken with the shade closed. With the shade at 90°, the lamp is 7”D x 10”H. With the shade vertical, the lamp is 5.5”D x 13.5"H.