Silk Dragon: A Neo-Modern Lamp Collection Inspired by the Ming Dynasty

A Symbol of Imperial Power and Chinese Culture

Inspired by the special natural beauty of China, designers Alena Zakharova and Lyubov Shilyaeva have created Silk Dragon, a collection of lamps in a neo-modern style. Drawing inspiration from the architecture, art, and history of China, particularly the Ming dynasty, the designers sought to capture the essence of the dragon, a symbol deeply intertwined with Chinese culture and the imperial power of the Ming dynasty. The lamps, made from glass, brass, and silk black metal, evoke the force of the wind and the weightlessness of silk, paying homage to the dragon's connection with the sky.

The Silk Dragon collection stands out for its unique blend of neo-modern design and the grandeur of the Ming dynasty. The dragon, a central motif in Chinese culture, represents the greatness of the Chinese people and the power of the empire. The lamps, with their dragon-like forms, exude a sense of strength and elegance. The use of materials such as glass, brass, and silk black metal adds a touch of sophistication and reflects different reflections, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.

Technologically, the Silk Dragon lamps feature a diode tape lighting system, providing both evening accent light and daylight. The use of diode lighting enhances the overall sensory experience and perception of space. The floor and table lamps are equipped with a touch switch and can be easily plugged into an outlet with an elegant wire. The suspended, ceiling, and wall lamps have a separate connection and switch, allowing for individual control and the use of a dimmer to create a desired ambiance while saving electricity.

The Silk Dragon lamps come in various sizes, including chandeliers, suspension lamps, table lamps, floor lamps, and wall lamps. The dimensions range from 1200 * 500 mm for chandeliers to 250 mm in diameter for wall lamps. The main body of the lamps is made from metal brass, glass, and matte black metal, which adds a tactile texture reminiscent of silk. The diode tape lighting system is enclosed in a plastic profile for a sleek and seamless look.

The Silk Dragon collection was a result of extensive research into Chinese culture, particularly the Ming dynasty. The designers drew inspiration from both Chinese and European cultures, as well as contemporary design trends, to create a design that is both globally appealing and deeply rooted in Chinese heritage. The project, which started in September 2017 in Moscow, took the designers nearly two weeks to complete.

The Silk Dragon collection has received recognition for its outstanding design. In 2018, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence. The Silk Dragon lamps exemplify the integration of art, science, design, and technology, contributing to improvements in quality of life and making the world a better place.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Alena
Image Credits: Alena
Project Team Members: Idea and design management : Alena Zakharova Idea and visualization: Lyubov Shilyaeva
Project Name: Silk Dragon
Project Client: Alena


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