Model 537 by Astep. The ingenuity of Gino Sarfatti.

Designed in the 1950s, Model 537 is one of those luminaires that reveal Gino Sarfatti’s remarkable ability to find ingenious solutions to seemingly simple challenges. Beyond its use of fine materials, the design brings together a generous dose of ingenuity and a touch of humour, a quality that was also part of the Italian master’s creative personality.

Reissued by Astep in 2019, Model 537 retains the distinctive character of a design that continues to surprise more than seven decades after its creation. Its structure combines a large aluminium reflector with a marble base, connected by a sinuous stem available in brass or black lacquered finish.

Its characteristic asymmetry and the combination of different materials define the uniqueness of a design that plays with balance and proportions.

A question of balance.

The composition of Model 537 seems to defy gravity. Each element serves a purpose and contributes to a delicate interplay of balance. The marble provides weight and stability; the sinuous stem, available in brass or black lacquer, introduces movement through its curves; and the aluminium reflector directs the light. A combination of materials, forms and proportions that reveals Gino Sarfatti’s ingenuity.

Model 537 is available with a black or white reflector, a brass or black structure, and a white or black marble base, offering different combinations that allow its expression to be adapted to each interior.

A curve with a practical purpose.

One of the most interesting details of Model 537 becomes apparent when looking at the upper part of its structure.

The stem passes through the reflector, continues upwards and curves backwards to form a handle, resolving a practical challenge in an unexpected way.

Gino Sarfatti thus made it possible to move the luminaire easily from one place to another, anticipating a feature that can now be found in numerous contemporary lighting designs.

From a desk to a living room, from a side table to a bedroom, Model 537 adapts to different moments and needs, moving wherever an additional source of light is required.

Functionality takes on a particularly ingenious, practical and playful expression.

Gino Sarfatti. Curiosity as a method.

Gino Sarfatti’s career was defined by an enduring curiosity about the technical and expressive possibilities of lighting. Founder of Arteluce in 1939, he developed hundreds of models throughout his career, experimenting with materials, light sources, structures and new ways of connecting light with space.

His engineering background and sensitivity to design allowed him to approach each project with an unusual degree of freedom. Experimentation was central to his creative process, leading to solutions that remain surprising even today.

Model 537 captures much of this spirit. Its asymmetrical composition, the flowing line of its structure and the integration of the handle reveal an approach to design in which creativity and functionality go hand in hand.

A design that retains its distinctive character.

Astep’s reissue brings back the original design and highlights Sarfatti’s pioneering research, whose work continues to be a reference in the history of Italian lighting.

Model 537 has lost none of its ability to surprise. Its sculptural presence, the richness of its materials and the intelligence of its construction make it just as compelling when switched off as when illuminated.