Gaetano Sciolari
After an initial training as a film director, followed by a degree in architecture, Gaetano Sciolari (1927-1994) took over the management of the family business in Rome, Sciolari Illuminazione, following the death of his father in 1949. The brand started to sell lamps in Europe and the United States, and during the '50s Gaetano began designing for Italian light brand Stilnovo, creating his most famous pieces. His luxurious, futuristic, multi-light chandeliers create interesting optical effects and combine shiny and satin metals such as brass and chromed metal; they became increasingly popular in the United States during the '70s, years in which Sciolari's style took on Art Deco and Space Age inspired aesthetics. Founder and president of the association of Italian lighting systems manufacturers, Sciolari is now highly sought after for his collectible pieces, among which the series Habitat, Cultura and Futura stand out.