French Industrial Scialytique Wall Light by BBT Circa 1950s

French Industrial Scialytique Wall Light by BBT Circa 1950s

Product code #OA3396

- Worldwide shipping
- All prices inc VAT
- All prices inc shipping within England and Wales
- Large circular black aluminium shade with mercury glass inner reflectors
- Articulated wall-mounted steel arm with adjustable positioning
- Telescopic arm extension
- Original on/off switch at base of arm
- Adjustable lamp head
- Takes E27 fitting bulbs
- Originally designed for medical and surgical environments
- Original manufacturer's plaque marked "Scialytique" BBT
- Original numbered plaque, Made in France
- Original Quétin, Paris manufacturer's plaque to wall arm
- French ~ 1950s

Dimensions
- Height 100cm x width 48cm x depth 130cm

Barbier, Bénard et Turenne (BBT), France

Barbier, Bénard et Turenne (BBT) was a French manufacturer specialising in optical engineering and lighting equipment. Originally founded in Paris in 1862 by Frédéric Barbier and Stanislas Fenestre, the company initially produced optical systems and lenses for maritime lighthouses, becoming one of the world's leading manufacturers of lighthouse lighting equipment.

During the early 20th century, BBT expanded into industrial, military, aviation and medical lighting, producing searchlights, optical instruments and specialist lighting systems.

In 1920, BBT began manufacturing the Scialytique surgical lamp, developed from an invention by Louis Vérain in 1919. The innovative system used multiple reflectors to distribute light evenly across an operating area, significantly reducing shadows during surgical procedures.

Scialytique lamps became widely used in French medical environments throughout the 20th century, combining precision optical engineering with substantial mechanical construction and adjustable articulated arms.

BBT continued producing specialist optical and lighting equipment until the company was taken over by CIT-Alcatel in the early 1980s.

Condition Report

Good overall condition with minor age-related wear. The articulated arm moves freely, and the light is fully operational. No scratches or damage to the glass or mirrored reflectors.

As with all of our products this product is an original piece and has lived a life before it arrived at Otto's HQ. It has been sympathetically restored by the Otto's team to ensure it has a life for many more years to come. All of our products will show signs of patina and cosmetic wear, this we believe is what gives our products their unique charm. If you have any further questions regarding the condition of this product or any others please don't hesitate to contact us and we'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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