Chimera lamp by Francesca De Giorgi, combining heritage design with modern aesthetics
Chimera by Francesca De Giorgi is a unique lighting piece that draws deeply from history, symbolism, and craftsmanship. Conceived as part of the Nassi brand’s limited edition collection, this lamp embodies the ethos of a company rooted in tradition and family legacy.
Each of the ten Chimera lamps in this exclusive run is individually crafted by hand in Puglia, a southern Italian region known for its stark landscapes and deeply symbolic material culture.
The design concept behind Chimera is based on fragmentation, reflecting the layered, often contradictory nature of human desire. Its form suggests a collection of elements, not disjointed but intentionally composed.
These fragments echo the ancient Etruscan clay ex-votos, historically used as offerings imbued with hopes, prayers, and meaning. While made of humble materials, the Chimera lamp gains presence and emotional weight through both its physical construction and the intentions woven into it.
Francesca De Giorgi, the principal designer behind this project and creative director of Nassi, integrates elements of ritual and good fortune into a design that transcends functionality.
Each lamp is not just an object, but a symbolic wish, one that evokes prosperity and heartfelt celebration. In doing so, Chimera blurs the boundaries between art and utility, tradition and innovation.
Nassi, active since 1960, represents three generations of women who have passed down artisanal expertise. Their approach to lighting design is anchored in the delicate balance between classic forms and contemporary restraint.
Rather than overwhelming with ornamentation, the brand pursues a refined aesthetic, a romantic rationalism, where form and function are distilled into harmonious simplicity.
The use of filtered light and high-quality materials reflects a sensitivity to atmosphere and sensory experience, making each lamp not only a source of illumination but also a presence within a space.
The influence of Puglia’s rich cultural tapestry is evident in every detail. From the sunbaked earth to the poetic austerity of local architecture, the region’s essence is quietly mirrored in the textures and silhouettes of Chimera.
As a product of its environment and a statement of design philosophy, the lamp stands as a testament to what happens when heritage, emotion, and design converge.
All images courtesy of Francesca De Giorgi
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