For some reason I always thought the Mathmos Lava Lamp – that iconic emblem of all things groovy – was an American invention. Not so, it turns out. It’s actually British through and through, was inspired by the design of an egg timer that eccentric inventor Edward Craven-Walker saw in a Dorset pub, and has been handmade in Britain since 1963.
Although inspiration may have struck quickly, the special formula for the liquid inside the lamp took years to develop, but with the dogged tenacity of all true inventors Craven-Walker (pictured left with his wife Christine) finally launched his first two lamps – the “Astro” in 1963 and the “Astro Baby” in 1964. Instantly popular, the psychedelic lava lamp became one of the must-have home accessories of the swinging 60’s.
Edward and Christine guided their business to great international success over the next 20 odd years, after which young entrepreneurs Cressida Granger and David Mulley took over the running of the company and introduced the lava lamp to a new generation of design lovers.
The lamp continues to be entirely British made; the bases of spun aluminum are produced in Devon, the bottles are manufactured in Yorkshire and the final stage of hand filling the lamps with Edward Craven-Walker’s unique formulation is carried out at the Mathmos company headquarters in Poole, Dorset.
Mathmos are marking their 50th birthday with a gold anodised limited edition lamp that is sure to become a collectors piece, and also the launch of their new “Heritage” range in vintage colours and finishes. There will be a special event, as part of their celebrations and to coincide with the start of the London Design Festival, at Aria interiors and design shop in Islington, north London, this Friday 13th September. Drop in anytime between 5 – 8 pm to see the gold Astro lamp presented for the first time (and available to buy), and guest of honour Christine Craven-Walker will be signing the numbered certificates that accompany them.
As well as Friday evening’s event, for the duration of the London Design Festival Aria will have an exhibition of original Astro lamp advertising material from the 1960’s – very “Mad Men” so an absolute must-see for all Don Draper fans.
You’ll find lots more information about the original Mathmos Lava Lamp on the Mathmos website if you’d like to read more about its history, and of its inventor who (as well as being inventor and entrepreneur) was also a colourful, eccentric personality. Amongst other things he was a World War II pilot, drove a fire engine, and owned a naturist camp in Dorset.
And visit Ariashop.co.uk to find their location if you fancy popping along on Friday evening – it’s a free drop-in event, and they’ll be serving drinks to help make the event go with a swing. Or maybe a swirl would be more appropriate.
Images: mathmos.com
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