A Cerf-Volant sconce (or wall lamp) by Pierre Guariche. Produced by Pierre Disderot in France, 1953. 

When we talk about Pierre Guariche's work, two of his creations immediately come to mind: the famous “Amsterdam” chair called “barrel” in molded plywood (edition Steiner, 1950s) and the elegant Cerf-Volant lamps designed for French lighting manufacturer Pierre Disderot in the 1950s. His lamps of the period are likely his best-known works. They include delicate compositions of slender steel tubes, and more flamboyant pieces such as the Kite lamp, with its curved metal reflector panel. Cerf-Volant translates to “kite”, referencing the shade of the lamp in its aerodynamic design. The elegant lines and precision of the wall lamp reflect Gauriche’s architectural talent.  

The lights of Guariche like the Cerf-Volant, incorporate a counterbalance to create perfect harmony. The brass sphere of the lamp act as counterweight, therefore it can be moved by the user into any position. The lamp is made out of a black lacquered metal and brass stem, with a delicate white perforated shade. The shade resembling a kite softly dims the lamp’s light to create the illusion of a sconce with burning candles. 

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use; The shade has minor marks, some discoloration. Stem has some marks and scratches. Item is newly wired.

Dimensions:

13.58 in W x 52.56 in D x 32.28 in H

34.5 cm W x 133.5 cm D x 82 cm H

Literature:  

Art Et Décoration, septembre-octobre 1957. Similar model. p. 26

Les Décorateurs des Années 50, P. Favardin. Similar model. p. 166 

1000 lights: 1960 to present, C. Fiell and P. Fiell, Taschen 2005. p. 453

The Complete Designers’ Lights II: 35 Years of Collecting. – Clémence et Didier Krzentowski. p. 106

About the designer:

A key figure in French post-war creation, Pierre Guariche trained at the School of Decorative Arts in Paris under the pioneering French Modernist René Gabriel. Guariche inscribed his approach and his achievements in a vocabulary perfectly suited to the needs of his time. Subsequently, he developed his own unique modern style, which has now become evocative of the 1950’s French lighting.  ~H.