This floor lamp was designed during the 1950s, an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models. Design wise, it was a period of consistency, excellence, and sophistication. Itsu, short for Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), was a small, (then) lesser-known manufacturer that produced characteristic models in small quantities.

Finnish lighting manufacturers were masters of creating designs with great textural variety, as this floor lamp demonstrates. The pairing of brass and rattan creates an interesting visual effect, where the traditional look of the organic material meets the modern look of brass. The twisted, rich brown rattan wraps around the stem from the very base of the lamp, contrasting beautifully against the smooth brass elements. The brass spiral decoration above the stem is also highlighted thanks to this contrast of materials. The mid-century modern movement ingeniously integrated the natural world into its designs, which can be observed in the material choices of this piece, making it quintessentially mid-century modern. The light fabric shade has an elegant and stylish look that stands out even more when the lamp is lit. Combined with the rattan stem and brass base with spiral element, the design offers a variety of points of visual interest. This spiral decoration is reminiscent of Finnish designer Paavo Tynell’s work. Itsu merged with Idman Oy in the 1950s, a large manufacturer who owned Taito, the company founded by Paavo Tynell. Thus, designs from Itsu of that time period bear some resemblance with the signature style of Tynell, and some would even say that they were heavily influenced by it. Itsu’s creations were a fusion of form and function, with a focus on decorative and stylish lamps.

The warm elegance and the “form follows function” ethos inherent in mid-century design is evident in this lamp, as well as the high-quality craftsmanship expected of Finnish lighting pieces. This floor lamp becomes more and more charming with each second spent on discovering its features, making it an ideal accent piece. Often, many people begin thinking about the overhead lighting and how it will serve the space; however, it's the freestanding lighting that plays the most pivotal role in getting it “just right”. This floor lamp is a truly timeless piece that would make a lovely addition to any interior.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The shade is a later replacement. The lamp has recently been rewired.

Dimensions:

17.71 in Ø x 62.60 in H

45 cm Ø x 159 cm H