Mantis BS5 wall lamp without switch, black – DCW éditions

Inspired by the mobiles of Alexander Calder, of whom Schottlander was a great admirer, this collection is distinguished by its unique aesthetic that plays on the tension between balance and imbalance, almost defying the laws of gravity. It embodies a blend of poetry, industrial design, and precise engineering, making it a timeless icon of contemporary design.

Origin and concept

Originally created as a limited edition and handcrafted, the Mantis collection was reissued by DCW Éditions in 2013, faithful to Schottlander's original designs. Schottlander, an artist and engineer, drew on his expertise to develop a clever pivot-counterweight system using thin, flexible, and durable metal rods. This mechanism allows for great mobility and precise direction of light, while maintaining remarkable stability.

Main features

The collection includes several types of lighting: floor lamps (such as the famous Mantis BS1), wall lamps (BS2, BS5, etc.), ceiling lamps, and table lamps. Each piece is characterized by:

    •    An asymmetrical lampshade: often made of aluminum or steel, painted in satin black with a white interior, it projects light with elegance and precision.

    •    A mobile structure: the pivoting arms (up to 360° for certain models) and tilting arms offer exceptional flexibility, allowing you to adjust the lighting as needed.

    •    A sleek design: the finesse of the lines and the visual balance evoke the graceful silhouette of a praying mantis (hence the name "Mantis"), combining lightness and robustness.

Flagship models

    •    Mantis BS1: An iconic floor lamp with a tripod base and rotating arm, perfect for a living room or reading nook. Its swiveling shade and adjustable base make it both functional and sculptural.

    •    Mantis BS2: A wall light with an extendable arm, ideal above a counter or table, with 180° rotation and an airy aesthetic.

    •    Mantis BS5: A more compact wall light, often used for targeted lighting, such as above a bedside table.

Aesthetics and use

Mantis luminaires are distinguished by their ability to discreetly occupy space while asserting a sophisticated presence. Their timeless design blends seamlessly into both modern and classic interiors, bringing a touch of refinement and dynamism. They are particularly appreciated by design enthusiasts for their utilitarian yet artistic appearance, often compared to "mobile sculptures."

Legacy

Reissued by DCW Éditions, a Parisian house founded by Philippe Cazer and Frédéric Winkler, the Mantis collection perpetuates the brand's philosophy: to offer objects that are "honest, well-thought-out, well-designed, and well-crafted." It follows in the footsteps of DCW's creations, alongside other iconic pieces such as the Lampe Gras, celebrating the union of historical heritage and contemporary innovation.
In short, the Mantis collection is an ode to creativity and functionality, a tribute to movement and elegance that continues to captivate design enthusiasts more than 70 years after its creation.