At the Tenth Milan Triennial in 1954, Finland received the largest relative proportion of available prizes. A new era had begun: The 1950s and 1960s became known as the golden age of Finnish design; a title that is well deserved as evidenced by this lamp.

The play of light and dark has been a source of inspiration for artists and designers for centuries, and this gorgeous model “K1-1” lamp is no exception. Being the very first of Maria Lindeman’s “K” series, the design carries with it the Finnish designer’s most characteristic design elements, including a sculptural, modern look based on the visual interaction of materials and unexpected angles. The design features mostly straight lines with a conical canopy, long brass rod and a straight, hourglass shaped cluster and shade holders. To break these lines, the five arms holding the opaline glass shades have a gentle, sloping curve. The metal cluster and the shade holders have the same shape resembling an hourglass with brass rings in the middle that connect to the arms. The glass shades are continuations of the holders, forming a torch shape that becomes the focus of the design. The eye-catching opaline glass catches the light beautifully, contrasted by the black lacquer of the fittings and the cluster from which the five arms stretch out in a symmetrical order. Thanks to the arrangement of the glass shades, light is distributed evenly in all directions when switched on. The finish praises Idman Oy’s famous craftsmanship under the leadership of Paavo Tynell. In the 1960s, Idman Oy’s production moved to Mikkeli where Maria Lindeman also worked with the company. 

The combination of materials and colours give this lamp a modern, sleek design, a clear return to bright simplicity that is in opposition with the flowing, organic lines of the reconstruction of the early 20th century. This famous, but rare model is sure to stand out in its surrounding, bringing Finnish modernism into the space.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. There are three previously restored cracks at the rim of the shades. Close to invisible when hanging. The brass has some marks and a beautiful patina.

Dimensions:

23.22 in ø x 43.3 in H

59 cm ø x 110 cm H

About the designer:

Maria Lindeman was born in Wiborg, Finland (Viipuri), and studied from 1939 to 1945 at Taideteollisuuskeskuskoulu, now known as the Aalto University School of Arts, Design, and Architecture in Helsinki. In 1953, Lindeman took part in a competition of lighting fixtures, announced by the Idman company. This competition resulted in a full-time job as the Idman’s artistic designer

The Idman company at that time was the biggest lighting manufacturer in Finland, exporting lighting fixtures globally, and Lindeman’s designs varied to include both modern and classical forms. During the 1950s and 1960s, Lindeman became one of the voices in constructing Finnish modernism, a participating member in the formulation of the Golden Age of Finnish design.