Babel is both a sturdy sculpture and a lamp apt for night-time intimacy. The use of alabaster, solid at the base and hollow for the shade, with no two units the same, made Babel a piece of art that began as a deliberate affront to the prevailing trends of the time.
Created by Àngel Jové during Spain’s transition to democracy, it challenged contemporary design trends. Drawing inspiration from the biblical Tower of Babel, it offers a new perspective, symbolizing unity rather than division. Its robust form contrasts with the prevailing grayness of 1980s Barcelona, offering a vibrant, intimate light. Alabaster, often seen as kitsch, was used to subvert mainstream design norms. Handcrafted and one-of-a-kind, the Babel lamp creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for late-night conversations.
