Bichos Oak Branch Lamps by Martinho Pita

The Bichos lamp series comes from Portuguese architect Martinho Pita, who creates the handmade lamps from pruned Portuguese Holly Oak trees. “Bichos,” which roughly translates to “creatures,” is meant to reflect just that – some type of wild creature that’s frozen while in motion.

Bicho C (first image also)

Each lamp in the series is completely unique given that every branch in nature is as well. The light source comes from a textile-covered cord that is threaded up through each branch like a lifeline, much like a vein delivering blood.

Bicho A

Over time, Pita has become the expert on tree pruning in order to get the branches just right. Here, he describes his process:

“Once on the ground I calibrate the branch in the right position and peel it while is fresh and soft. It’s then a matter of shaping, sanding and detailing it before it dries completely since holly wood is extremely hard. It is important to understand its dynamics.”

Bicho A

Bicho B

Bicho B

Bicho D

Bicho D

Bicho E

Bicho E

Bicho F

Bicho G

Bicho H

Bicho I

Photos by Francisco Nogueira.