Brass Wall Lamp with Decorative Leaves for K&H, Norway circa 1940s

This rare model is by Swedish designer and sculptor, Harald Notini. He was the artistic leader at Böhlmarks and is represented at the ‘Nationalmuseum’ in Stockholm. Between the 1920...

In the annals of mid-century modern design, the Swedish designer and architect, Gunnar Asplund stood out as a luminary, and his delicately sculptural creations, such as this pair of wall lamps from the 1950s, epitomize the era's sophistication and functional beauty. Swedish architect and designer, Erik Gunnar Asplund is celebrated as the godfather of functionalist design in Sweden. Asplund's meticulous attention to detail and penchant for marrying form with function is evident in these wall lamps, combining materials just as ingeniously as forms and shapes. Crafted in the 1950s, these wall lamps feature circular brass mounts that gracefully extend two brass arms, holding both the light bulbs and the large, sculptural opaline glass diffusers. The geometric precision of the design reflects Asplund's architectural background, where clean lines and balanced proportions reign supreme. The lamps serve as great examples of the enduring quality of mid-century Swedish craftsmanship. Swedish mid-century modern design, marked by its emphasis on simplicity and functionality, sought to bring beauty into everyday life. Asplund's pieces encapsulate this ethos, transcending mere utilitarianism to become objets d'art that enhance living spaces. Manufactured by ASEA, a Swedish powerhouse in electrical engineering and industrial design, these lamps embody the marriage of aesthetics and utility. ASEA, founded in 1883, played a pivotal role in shaping Sweden's industrial landscape. Their foray into lighting design seamlessly blended technological innovation with artistic sensibility, making them a prominent player in the mid-century modern movement. The choice of brass and opaline glass as primary materials in these lamps speaks to the enduring appeal of this combination in mid-century modern lighting design. Brass, with its warm and timeless lustre, complements the opulence of mid-century interiors, while opaline glass diffusers disperse light with a soft, ethereal glow. This harmonious pairing endures as a hallmark of sophistication, blending seamlessly into contemporary design aesthetics. Swedish lighting design, deeply rooted in the country's commitment to quality craftsmanship and functional elegance, continues to influence global trends. The enduring popularity of mid-century modern design, exemplified by these Erik Gunnar Asplund lamps...

“GA9” appears to be inspired by a droplet, floating upward the wall. The mouth blown glass with bubbles creates an intricate play between light and shadow, giving the appearance of light travelling through water. Swedish architect and designer, Erik Gunnar Asplund, is celebrated as the godfather of functionalist design in Sweden. Like his celebrated Stockholm City Library, these lamps emphasize geometric simplicity and clarity of form. The construction of this model is ingenious, with a bent arm holding the glass in place, with yet another arm holding the light source in the centre of the luminaire. The black lacquered metal bends organically into sinuous forms, while the backplates have a polygon shape. Pairing the geometric elements with the more organic ones shows Asplund’s great eye for design that was well ahead of his time. The large, mushroom-like mouth blown glass shades have distinctive “drops” on their surfaces, creating a beautiful effect that becomes even more apparent when the light is on. The atmospheric light it creates is not measurable, nor is it functional in the traditional sense. It is easily forgotten, but nevertheless important when creating a space of wellbeing. It is the most basic and fundamental of all lighting principles, one that has been with us since the dawn of time. Asplund’s life and work served as inspiration to a number of Scandinavian design luminaries, such as lifelong friend and mentee Alvar Aalto, as well as Erik Bryggman...

Swedish Modern, with its simplified lines and lack of excessive ornamentation, was a counter reaction to the earlier, more decorative design movements such as Art Deco. In comparison, as this pair of wall lamps demonstrates, the mid-century era brought streamlined modernism to Sweden as well. Börje Claes designed this polished brass wall lamp model with both table and floor lamp versions. In these wall lamp versions he combined a classical shape with carefully thought out proportions and Swedish craftsmanship. Similarly to the other versions, the necks’ characteristic curve holding the brass shades define this model. To accompany the defined curves, the backplates have a circular shape that mirrors the shape of the shade. The inside of the shade has a patinated metal look to enhance the light the lamp emits with a beautiful effect. While there is a clear attention on the design elements, functionality was of equal importance in the classic “Svensk design” manner, in which form must follow function in order for something to be considered ‘god design’ (sic.). As such, the lamps’ trumpet shades can be adjusted freely on the vertical axis through a so-called knee joint by the German company OMI. In line with the Functionalist trend of the time, the designer abandoned ornamentation in favour of form. Nonetheless, the warmth and beauty inherent in Swedish design is maintained, as well as high-quality craftsmanship provided by Swedish manufacturer, Norlett Elit...

A brass and white fabric wall light produced by Brødrene Sæther, Norway, c. 1940s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 11.5” H x 14.5” W x 6.125 “D Back Plate Dimensions (Inches): 3.125 ”...

A pair of brass and beige fabric wall light produced by Brødrene Sæther, Norway, c. 1940s. Overall Dimensions (inches):  7” H x  4.125” W x  7.375” D Back Plate Dimensions (Inches)...

An adjustable, brass and rattan wall light designed and produced by Astra, Norway, c. 1940s. Sold with Lampshade(s). Dimensions stated are of Sconce with Shade(s). Dimensions ...

These two wall lamps from the 1940s are crafted from brass and produced in Denmark. They are attributed to Palle Suenson, a prominent Danish architect and designer known for his cle...