Introduction
Le Corbusier, also known as Charles-Edouard Jeanneret, was a renowned Swiss-French architect, designer, painter, and writer. He is often referred to as the father of modern architecture. Le Corbusier’s designs were characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a preference for geometric shapes. One of his iconic designs is the Corbu Lamp, which is a perfect example of his design philosophy.
The Design of Corbu Lamp
The Corbu Lamp is a table lamp that was designed by Le Corbusier in 1954 for the Chandigarh Project, which was a modernist city in India. The lamp was designed to be a part of the city’s furniture collection. Le Corbusier designed the lamp in a way that it could be easily produced and assembled. The lamp has a distinctive shape, which is a sculptural form of a human figure in a standing position.
The lamp’s base is made of steel and can be folded flat, which makes it easy to package and transport. The lamp’s shade is made of glass and is shaped like a cylinder. It is supported by a steel arm, which is adjustable and can be positioned to provide optimal lighting. The lamp is available in various colors, including black, brown, orange, and white.
Functionality of Corbu Lamp
Le Corbusier designed the Corbu Lamp to be a functional object that provides optimal lighting for reading, working, or any other activity that requires focused lighting. The lamp’s shade is made of glass, which allows maximum light output. The lamp’s arm is adjustable, which means that the light can be directed wherever it is needed. The lamp’s base is sturdy and does not take up much space, which makes it ideal for use on desks, tables, or nightstands.
Artistic Value of Corbu Lamp
The Corbu Lamp not only provides excellent lighting but also has artistic value. Le Corbusier intended to create an object that was both functional and sculptural. The lamp’s distinctive shape is a sculptural form of a human figure in a standing position, which makes it a piece of art rather than just a lamp. The lamp’s form has been compared to that of a totem, which is a symbol of spiritual significance in certain cultures.
