FontanaArte Bilia Table Lamp, Glass Sphere on Metal Cone, Dimmable, 16.9 in

The FontanaArte Bilia table lamp is a dimmable bedside, desk and console lamp built from two pure shapes: an opal glass sphere resting on a slender metal cone. Standing 16.9 in tall on a footprint under 8 in across, it fits narrow nightstands and crowded desks, and the glowing globe spreads soft, even light around it rather than throwing a hard pool. A dimmer on the cord takes it from a working level down to a low evening glow, and the sphere looks as if it is balanced by a trick, which is what makes the lamp so recognisable.

Quick facts

• Product: Bilia table lamp
• Brand: FontanaArte, Milan, Italy
• Item number (MPN): F247405550RMN1 (Brushed Copper); see the finish selector for each finish's number
• Type: Plug-in table lamp with glass globe diffuser
• Best for: nightstands, desks, consoles, side tables, hotel rooms, reception desks and lounges
• Height: 16.9 in (43 cm)
• Diameter: 7.9 in (20 cm)
• Light source: 1 x E12 bulb, 46W maximum (bulb not included)
• Light: diffused, dimmable; dimmer included on the transparent cord
• Power: plug-in, 110V; no hardwiring
• Rating: IP20, dry indoor locations only
• Materials: white blown glass with satin finish; metal cone base
• Finishes available: Brushed Copper, Glossy Copper, Glossy Black, Brass, Satin Nickel
• Certification: UL pending
• Designer: Gio Ponti (1932)
• Styles: Modern, Transitional, Minimalist, Contemporary

UL certification for the U.S. market is in progress for this lamp.

Light quality and how it performs

The globe is white blown glass with a satin finish, so the bulb disappears and the whole sphere glows evenly. Light leaves it in every direction: a soft circle on the table, a warm wash on the wall behind and a gentle glow upward. The included dimmer lets you set it bright enough for a desk or bedside reading, then turn it right down as a night light or for dinner. It takes one E12 (candelabra) bulb up to 46W; a warm-white LED E12 bulb keeps the glass cool and brings out the creamy tone of the glass. Because the light is diffused rather than aimed, Bilia is best as ambient and accent light with a little task light, rather than a focused reading lamp.

Size and placement

At 16.9 in (43 cm) high and 7.9 in (20 cm) across, Bilia is compact. It needs only about 10 in of clear surface, so it fits narrow nightstands, floating shelves, the corner of a desk or a bar counter. On a nightstand, the sphere sits around shoulder height when you are sitting up in bed, which keeps glare out of your eyes. On a console, its slim profile leaves space for books, a tray or a vase; a pair on a long sideboard or at each end of a buffet looks deliberate and balanced.

Where it works

Bedrooms. A pair of Bilias on matching nightstands gives each side its own dimmable light without taking much room.

Living rooms and dining rooms. Set one on a side table next to a sofa or on a sideboard for a warm accent; dim it low during dinner.

Home offices and studies. Compact enough for the desk corner, it softens screen-heavy workspaces with a warm background glow.

Hotels, restaurants and retail. Bilia is a reliable choice for guest-room nightstands, reception desks, bar tops, restaurant consoles and boutique display tables. It plugs in, its footprint is small, and its sculptural shape gives a consistent, recognisable design note across many rooms.

Style and pairing

A sphere and a cone are about as simple as design gets, so Bilia fits almost any scheme. In Modern and Minimalist rooms, choose Glossy Black or Satin Nickel against white walls, concrete or dark timber. In Transitional and Contemporary interiors, Brass or one of the coppers adds warmth next to walnut, velvet, marble and linen. Group it with other round forms (a globe pendant, a round mirror, ceramic vessels) for a calm, geometric vignette.

Why choose Bilia

• A 1932 design by Gio Ponti, co-founder of FontanaArte, still made today.
• Dimmer included, from working light to night light.
• Small footprint for narrow nightstands, desks and shelves.
• Five metal finishes to match brass, copper, nickel or black hardware.

Care

Switch off and allow the lamp to cool before cleaning. Lift the glass sphere off with both hands and dust it with a soft, dry cloth; use a lightly damp cloth for marks and dry it straight away. Wipe the metal cone with a soft dry cloth only; polishes and abrasive cleaners can damage the finish. Keep it in dry indoor rooms.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bilia a good bedside lamp? Yes. It is 16.9 in tall and 7.9 in across, so it fits most nightstands, and the dimmer lets you lower it for the evening.

Can I use it on a desk? Yes, as a compact ambient and accent light. For long reading or detailed work, add a directional task lamp.

What bulb does Bilia take? One E12 (candelabra) bulb, 46W maximum. The bulb is not included.

Is it dimmable? Yes. A dimmer is included on the cord.

Which finish works with brass hardware? Choose Brass. For warmer, redder metals, choose one of the copper finishes; for chrome or stainless, Satin Nickel.

What is the globe made of? White blown glass with a satin finish. The base is metal.

Is it hard to install? No. It plugs into a standard outlet.

Is Bilia certified for the U.S.? UL certification is pending.

Can it go in a bathroom or outside? No. It is rated IP20 for dry indoor rooms only.

Is there a smaller version? Yes, FontanaArte also makes the Bilia Mini and a cordless Bilia Mini Portable, sold as separate products.

Trade & project orders

Interior designers, architects and hospitality buyers can join the MetropolitanDecor trade program for trade pricing. We also prepare quotes for multi-unit and project orders; contact us with your quantities.

Please note: Because this item is made to order or specially sourced, it is final sale.