Samurai, Japanese feudal military aristocracy of pre-industrial Japan and the current Samurai teachings of the martial art Kendo meaning (way of the sword), are renowned for their smooth and graceful movements. The traditional samurai sword Katana serves as the inspiration (and name) of the floor lamp designed by V12 Design and Arkispazio for ITRE. As with the dynamic elegance of Japanese warriors, Katana is imbued with a similar aesthetic.

Katana floor lamp. Designed by V12 Design and Arkispazio for ITRE.

The floor lamp has recently been manifested in a vertical, column-like form with both Tress Lamp designed by Marc Sadler for Foscarini and that designed by Dane Anne Romme and Tatar Fiyel Levent of Levent and Romme. Conversely, Katana, with its long vertical piece and outstretched upper arm extends both vertically and horizontally into a space, evoking the concept of crossing samurai swords. While the colum-like lamps are about texture and patterning, Katana is purely about form.

Merging the history of the samurai and traditional Japanese martial art with technology, Katana is the result of scrupulous design research. While remarkably simple in form, it requires the application of technology to enable the long, outstretched arm to balance over its thin base. The lightweight material carbon fiber was used to achieve the necessary balance and stability within the piece. Through a strong base (of steel) and the carbon fiber arms, the elongated aesthetic is achieved. A sophisticated, articulated joint enables the upper arm to be maneuvered as desired.

Given its grand scale and sculptural form, those living in small spaces should look elsewhere. Consider the performance of martial arts and the space in which it must take place.  Extend this vision to involve the crossing swords of Katana.  Large and open spaces are best suitable for the introduction of this innovative lamp which brings together an ancient noble art and modern technology.