Massimo Vignelli for Arteluce, pair of '259/2' wall lights, aluminum, fabric, Italy, 1964

In the 259/2 wall lights, designed by Massimo Vignelli for Arteluce in 1964, the interplay of geometry and materiality takes on a surprisingly sensual dimension. The structural form is deceptively simple: a rectilinear aluminum canopy houses the light source, from which cascades a soft curtain of vertical threads fine textile strands that suspend downward like a delicate fringe. This contrast between the rigid, architectural upper housing and the fluid curtain below defines the piece.