Good Questions: Alternative to the Fortuny Lamp?

Does anyone know of a lamp that resembles the Fortuny but, is more reasonably priced?
Sincerely,
Jeff

(Note: Include a pic of your problem and your question gets posted first. Email questions and pics with QUESTIONS in subject line to: newyork(at)apartmenttherapy(dot)com)

We would suggest looking into professional photography lighting and umbrellas &mdash a less expensive alternative to the $5000 Fortuny Lamp. Anyone else?

Comments (13)

Aaron--

I'm confused...

These are the Fortuny lamps that I'm familiar with - and they're nothing like photography lamps.

http://www.fortunyva.com/3schehersilk_2.htm

A combination of Andrew Martin's "Stage Light" [http://andrewmartin.co.uk/essentials/essentialsrange.php?ecid=3] and an inexpensive diffusing umbrella [http://www.adorama.com/PTSL407.html?searchinfo=umbrella&item_no=7] might work well.

funny you should mention actual photography lighting. after i emailed my question, i did look at B&H photo... adorama has much better tripod though.

jeff

I'm with bepsf...when someone says "fortuny" I think of the the gorgeous silk lamps.

This should clear up the "Fortuny" debate. He apparently did indoor lighting (which is what bepsf is referring to above), but he also created the Cyclorama Dome, which is know commonly known as the "Fortuny Lamp." Which what Design Within Reach sells. Here's a short history:

http://blueantstudio.blogspot.com/2006/11/designer-of-week_13.html

Ironically Fortuny created his iconic photography lamp with no intention of selling it. He needed something to use in his own space to better photograph the lamps (and other works) he DID intend to sell. Now it is considered his most important piece. (At least that's what the authors of design books say.)

Great timing, AT! I've been trying to find a substitute for this very lamp for months now. I've looked at actual photographers' lamps, used movie set lamps, and the various mass-market "Hollywood" lamps at Pottery Barn, etc., but nothing quite matches the Fortuny for elegance.

To Lisa: true... can't find that beautiful dome on the pivoting "U" or clean base.

I think this one is irreplaceable....

Matt Blatt in Sydney (www.mattblatt.com.au) does a pretty good replica for $495 AUD but I am not sure if they will send os.

Not at all comparable but would you consider a Noguchi -smart-looking and similar feet, though far less light?

Sebastian at nymod.com has a replica of the fortuny lamp for $400. It is called the "alcatraz lamp" and is available with black or grey fabric.

$395 at Funky Furniture on Folsom St in SF - smaller, less powerful repro' - kinda cool. I'd have bought it but I need more light (it is rated for 75w (if I remember correct). Not featured on website so I'd call.