In the late 1930s, Franco Albini began to consider the notion of variation in his designs of "Mitragliera" floor lamps. In the genesis and evolution of the design, Albini conceived models with a variety of materials and constructive details in a persistent search for new artistic realizations. The configuration of the lamp recalls the form of a classic tripod machine gun: the legs angled out, taking aim with the lampshade located at the end of the barrel. In the process, Albini aspired for his designs to fit seamlessly into the rise of a culture based on mass production.

In addition to his own designs, Sarfatti would also execute designs he admired by friends and colleagues. In 1948, he based the present design on a floor lamp that Albini had designed for his apartment at via De Togni, Milan, in 1938. This production, likely by Arteluce and believed to number fewer than ten, is distinguished by its telescopic function. Subsequent productions had a fabric shade rather than aluminum and were not adjustable. In its various forms, the “Mitragliera” lamps capture Albini’s innovative and inspiring approach.