It is almost an unsaid rule – religion and contemporary designs do not go hand in hand. Well, Slovenia-based industrial designer Luka Pirnat has ambitiously traversed this narrow-minded notion with the magnificently crafted metallic menorah.
Exhibiting clean angles with simple curves and elegant components, the classy nature of the candelabrum symbolizes the purity of religion on many levels. This unpretentious degree of sophistication is also accentuated on the elaborate level with golden and silver inlays along the stand and the base.
However, the ‘piece de resistance’ of the entire contrivance will surely be the incorporation of Zippo lighters along the top branches. They sort of endow an uniquely industrial (even Steampunk-esque) feel to the menorah. But on the other hand, they also serve a practical purpose of posing as ‘fire candles’ that won’t just blow off from tepid breeze effects.
In fact, Zippo lighters transform the menorah from a strictly religious artifact into a fully functional gasolier. According to the designer –
In the mid 19th century as gas lighting caught on, branched ceiling fixtures called gasoliers (a portmanteau of gas and chandelier) were produced and many candle chandeliers were converted. This is where the idea came from—a set of lighters as a chandelier, a pedestal to the brand and its history. A classic with a twist. Using a typical menorah shape as the basis, the final form took shape and there was light.
This once again proves the unconstrained scope of the metallic menorah. The design can obviously be used as an symbolic instrument of faith during the Hanukkah holidays. However, the contrivance can also be showcased as a ‘secular’ decor element with gorgeous lighting credentials.
Via: Core77
