Description
ABOUT THE ITEM
DIMENSIONS
H: 102 cm; D: 30 cm
MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES
STEEL
NEW INSTALLATION OF 220v
INCLUDES 1 LED 6w
PLACE OF ORIGIN
CATALUNYA
PERIOD
19-20 century
CONDITION
IN RUST
This old chestnut roaster was found in an old village house in the Garrotxa region of Catalonia. It was converted by the ARTLOTE designers into a functional indoor ambient lamp
HISTORY
The Catalan castañera (or castanyera in Catalan) holds a special place in the cultural and artistic heritage of Catalonia. Traditionally, these were small, portable stoves or roasters used by street vendors, especially women, to roast chestnuts during the autumn and winter months. Rooted in Catalan folklore, the castanyera is a symbol of warmth and community, often appearing as a central figure during the festive season. These humble objects, with their functional yet rustic design, evoke memories of bustling city streets and the enticing aroma of roasted chestnuts, which were sold wrapped in newspaper cones.
After a century of use, the transformation of this antique castanyera into a wall lamp by Artlote is an inspired reinvention that bridges tradition and modernity. Artlote, known for their artistic interpretations of historical objects, reimagines the piece as a functional artwork, preserving its heritage while giving it a new lease on life. By converting the roasting drum or iron frame into a lighting fixture, the design pays homage to its origins while emphasizing its sculptural and utilitarian beauty. This creative reinterpretation invites viewers to appreciate the historical essence of the object in a contemporary setting.
The wall lamp crafted from the 100-year-old castanyera serves as a meaningful dialogue between past and present. Its aged metal surface, patinated by decades of use, radiates authenticity, while the warm glow of the lamp symbolizes the comforting light and heat the original object once provided. Whether displayed in a modern home or a heritage-inspired space, the piece becomes a focal point, sparking conversations about history, sustainability, and the enduring value of craftsmanship.
This transformation also highlights the importance of preserving cultural artifacts in a way that keeps their spirit alive. Rather than relegating the castanyera to obscurity, Artlote has honored its legacy by giving it a modern function that still resonates with its original purpose of providing light and warmth. This thoughtful adaptation ensures that the castanyera continues to be celebrated as a piece of Catalan history, while also serving as a testament to the timelessness of creative reinvention.