Gino Sarfatti was born in Venice on 16th September 1912. In 1930 he moved to Genoa to enrol in the Faculty of Aeronaval Engineering. However, at the age of 23, he was forced to interrupt his studies as a result of the worsening political situation in Europe at that time. Later Gino Sarfatti moved to Milan and founded the acclaimed lighting company, Arteluce in February 1939. In 1953 the Arteluce showroom was completely refurbished by Marco Zanuso, and became a centre of international attention. In 1954, the 1063 and 1065 models were awarded the Grand Prix at the X Triennale, and the 559 model won the ADI Compasso d’Oro. After many successful and creative years, Gino Sarfatti sold the Arteluce company to Flos, and retired to Griante on Lake Como. Gino Sarfatti passed away on 6th March 1985.