FontanaArte Metafora Table Lamp, Opal Glass Cone on Clear Glass Base, 22.8 in

The FontanaArte Metafora table lamp sets a wide cone of opal glass on top of a clear glass cone, so the light seems to float above the table on almost nothing. It is a lamp for a console, a sideboard, a library table or a hotel lounge, where a 22.8 in tall glass sculpture can be seen from across the room. Switched on, the opal shade glows softly and casts a pool of warm light downward through the transparent base; switched off, it is a play of white and clear glass that changes with the daylight.

Quick facts

• Product: Metafora table lamp
• Brand: FontanaArte, Milan, Italy
• Item number (MPN): F265405150BTN1
• Type: Plug-in decorative table lamp
• Best for: consoles, sideboards, living rooms, libraries, entries, hotel lounges and restaurants
• Height: 22.8 in (58 cm)
• Shade diameter: 19.2 in (49 cm)
• Light source: 1 x E26 bulb, 116W maximum (bulb not included)
• Light: Diffused, dimmer included
• Power: 110 V plug-in
• Rating: IP20, dry indoor locations only
• Materials: Layered blown opal glass shade; internally painted Pyrex glass; clear glass base hiding a metal frame
• Certification: UL pending
• Designer: Umberto Riva (1980)
• Styles: Modern, Contemporary, Classic, Transitional

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

Light quality and how it performs

The shade is blown in layered opal glass, which turns the bulb into a broad, even glow with no visible hot spot. Because the cone opens wide at the bottom, most of the light is thrown down onto the table and the objects around it, while the opal glass itself shines gently as a soft halo at eye level. The clear glass cone underneath catches that light and sparkles faintly, which is what gives Metafora its jewel-like quality in the evening.

The lamp takes a single E26 bulb up to 116W and a dimmer is included, so it can work hard as the main light on a writing table or sit low as mood light on a sideboard. For the glass to look its best, choose a warm 2700K LED: it brings out the creamy tone of the opal glass and keeps the clear base from looking cold.

Size and placement

Metafora is 22.8 in (58 cm) tall with a shade 19.2 in (49 cm) across, so it needs a generous surface: plan on a console or sideboard at least 20 in deep, or a round side table of 22 in or more. Because the base is clear glass, it looks lighter than its size and will not visually block a window or artwork behind it.

On a console behind a sofa, the shade sits just above seated eye level and lights the room without glare. Leave 6 in or more between the rim of the shade and a wall so the cone reads as a complete form. In a hotel lounge or library, a pair at either end of a long table creates a calm, formal rhythm.

Where it works

Living rooms, libraries and entries. A sideboard, hall console or library table is the natural home for Metafora. It brings a warm pool of light to a surface you pass and use every day, and the glass gives the room a handcrafted focal point.

Dining rooms. On a buffet or credenza it adds layered light alongside a pendant over the table, so the room is never lit from one source alone.

Hotels, restaurants and lounges. Metafora suits reception desks, hotel lobbies, private dining rooms and bar back-counters, where a sculptural glass lamp signals quality. It plugs in, so it can be placed without electrical work.

Style and pairing

Umberto Riva designed Metafora in 1980 at the invitation of Gae Aulenti, then FontanaArte's art director, as part of the company's return to glass. The lamp has the rigour of Modern Italian design and the craft of traditional glass-blowing, so it sits comfortably in Contemporary interiors with stone and lacquer, in Classic rooms with panelled walls and antique wood, and in Transitional schemes in between. Pair it with dark timber, marble, velvet and botanical prints, or with a pale wall that lets the glass silhouette stand out.

Why choose Metafora

• A collector's piece of Italian glass design from 1980.
• Opal glass shade gives a soft, glare-free glow with strong downlight.
• Clear glass base makes a large lamp look light and airy.
• Dimmer included for task or mood light.
• Made with traditional glass-blowing techniques.

Care

Unplug and let the lamp cool before cleaning. Wipe the opal shade and clear base with a soft, lint-free cloth; use a little glass cleaner on the cloth, never sprayed onto the lamp. Handle the glass parts with two hands when moving or changing the bulb. Use in dry indoor locations only.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Metafora lamp look best? On a console, sideboard, library table or wide side table where its 19.2 in glass shade has room to be seen from several angles.

How tall and wide is Metafora? It is 22.8 in (58 cm) tall with a 19.2 in (49 cm) shade.

Is it bright enough to read by? Yes. It takes an E26 bulb up to 116W, and the wide cone sends most of the light down onto the table.

Can I dim it? Yes. A dimmer is included.

What bulb should I use? One E26 bulb, up to 116W, not included. A warm 2700K LED flatters the opal glass.

What is it made of? Layered blown opal glass for the shade, internally painted Pyrex glass, and a clear glass base that hides a slim metal frame.

Is it fragile? It is made of glass and should be handled with care, especially when moving it or changing the bulb, but it is designed for everyday use.

Does it suit a traditional room? Yes. Its hand-blown glass and calm cone shape sit well in Classic and Transitional rooms as well as Modern ones.

Is it suitable for a hotel or restaurant? Yes. It is a plug-in lamp that works well on reception desks, lounge tables and buffets.

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

Can it go in a bathroom or outdoors? No. It is rated IP20 for dry interiors only.

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.