Mid-Century Modern Brass Ceiling Lamp with Striped Glass Shades, Europe ca 1950s (sold)




































Mid-Century Modern Brass Ceiling Lamp with Striped Glass Shades, Europe ca 1950s (sold)
This brass and glass chandelier is full of personality, with unexpected details that make it unique. Most likely a one-off, this model has an essentially mid-century modern look with lovely accents and impeccable craftsmanship.
There are a number of details that distinguish this chandelier from its fellow models of the era. Firstly, the five shades face downwards, which is rare for similar chandelier designs not only for this era, but also in general. Secondly, the opal glass shades have a black lines painted on them which is a playful feature that stands out the most when the light is switched on. Lastly, the cluster in the middle is crafted of veneered exotic wood in a drum shape framed by brass rings. While each detail is individualistic on its own, together they create a harmonious design completed by the long brass rod and curved arms. The five arms are arranged symmetrically with each of the pronounced curves holding a bell shaped opal glass shade. When lit, the lamp provides a soft, intimate light that highlights the brass shade holders and the black lines. This model is marked “HKL 450” and likely hails from Scandinavia.
Ceiling lighting has been used as a decorative focal point for rooms since the 20th century. As this ceiling lamp exemplifies, European mid-century design, where interior lighting is of particular importance, designers managed to master the art of soft light without blinding or crushing space perception.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches on the brass.
Dimensions:
21.65 in W x 20.86 in D x 40.55 in H
55 cm W x 53 cm D x 103 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
By the 1950s, Finland had established itself as a force of innovation in design. During this era, the country saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models; it was a period of consistency in excellence and sophisticated design. Itsu, short for Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), was one of the lesser known gems of Finland’s lighting manufacturers. Founded in 1945, after World War II, Itsu produced characteristic models in small quantities, that endure to this day through their masterful design and great quality.
This ceiling light exemplifies that restrained approach through its striking inverted conical shade made from finely pleated fabric. The tightly gathered pleats radiate from the central brass fitting, creating a crisp geometric pattern that gives the large shade a light, even and ethereal appearance. The brass finial anchors the centre of the fixture, while the shade itself covers the ceiling mount, and thus remaining the visual focus. When illuminated, the pleated fabric softens and diffuses the light evenly across its broad surface, producing a warm ambient glow. This quality even further emphasizes the rhythm of the folds. The generous diameter makes the lamp an effective central ceiling fixture, yet its clean silhouette prevents it from overwhelming a space. The combination of fabric and brass, together with the disciplined geometry of the pleated form, demonstrates how simple materials can achieve a refined and highly architectural result.
This ceiling lamp is the perfect way to add a touch of elegance to any space without being overwhelming. Its emphasis on creating comfortable, atmospheric light, as well as its unique character illustrate the qualities for which Finnish mid-century lighting is appreciated.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration. The shade is a later replacement which was custom made by our in-house atelier. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
27.55 in ø x 11.02 in H
70 cm ø x 28 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Italy is revered for many things: Food, wine, coffee, fashion - and in the world of design; lighting. For decades, Italy has set the bar in contemporary lighting, thanks to forward-thinking pioneers like Luigi Caccia Dominioni and brands like Azucena, and time-honoured techniques.
Designed around 1958, the "LP 10" model exemplifies Dominioni’s architectural approach to lighting, combining sculptural form with understated elegance. Produced by Azucena, one of Italy’s most influential post-war design manufacturers, the “LP-10” remains celebrated for its timeless proportions and refined material palette. Crafted in solid brass with opaline glass shades, the lamps emit a soft, ambient glow while showcasing the exceptional quality of their construction. The gently curved metal arms create a beautiful visual balance between structure and lightness, allowing the frosted glass shades to appear almost suspended. The warm patina that develops on the brass over time enhances the set’s character, while the minimalist silhouette reflects Dominioni’s enduring commitment to functional beauty and sophisticated restraint.
This pair of wall lights bridges architectural precision with decorative warmth. Whether installed individually or as a pair, they serve as both an elegant source of illumination and sculptural design objects. As one of Luigi Caccia Dominioni’s most recognisable designs for Azucena, the “LP-10” stands as an enduring icon of post-war Italian craftsmanship and modernist design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies. The lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting.
Dimensions:
5.11 in W × 7.08 in D × 21.25 in H
13 cm W x 18 cm D x 54 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Danish Modern is an era that defined an essential chapter in design history. Denmark was placed on the world map for its groundbreaking craftsmanship and mid-century modern furniture. This wall lamp displays some of the essential ideals of the style: streamlined modernism accompanied by a functional, timeless design with decorative elements.
This wall lamp features a dynamic brass body that extends outward to hold a stunning glass shade. This wall lamp reflects the danish modern philosophy through its graceful lines, adjustable construction, and thoughtful use of natural materials. The model unfolds through a series of elegant bends that give the brass arm a distinct visual quality. Extending confidently from the wall, the articulated arm allows the light to be positioned with flexibility while creating a striking linear composition. Rather than opting for a classic fabric shade, the designer chose glass as a material. The milky glass contrasts beautifully with the polished brass structure. The shade filters the light, producing a soft, atmospheric glow that enhances the comforting character of the design. Every transition between horizontal and vertical lines feels effortless, revealing the Danish remarkable ability to transform a functional mechanism into something sculptural.
Today we consider the mid-century era a golden age for Scandinavian design and craftsmanship. During these decades, some of the country's most significant luminaires were made, including this exceptional wall sconce.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item has some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
9.05 in W x 31.1 in D x 9.44 in H
23 cm W x 79 cm D x 24 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Gunnel Nyman was one of the pioneers of modern Finnish glass design, with her work extending from glassware to furniture and lighting design. Trained at the School of Industrial Arts in Helsinki under Arttu Brummer, she designed lighting for Idman Oy early in her career while simultaneously developing the innovative glass objects for which she is best known.
Model 51132/5 features five amber-tinted glass shades arranged in a circular composition, each supported by elegantly curved brass arms that extend from a central hub. The shades have a finely spiral-moulded surface that subtly refracts the light, giving the warm amber glass additional depth and texture when illuminated. The looping brass arms become an integral part of the design, creating a rhythmic composition of repeated curves beneath the glass. The slender suspension stem reinforces the chandelier's light appearance, allowing the sculptural arrangement of the shades to take center stage. The contrast between the polished brass and softly glowing glass creates a warm, balanced composition that is equally decorative whether lit or unlit. Every element is carefully proportioned, from the compact central fitting to the generous spacing of the five shades, resulting in a fixture that distributes light evenly while maintaining a refined architectural presence.
Despite her short career, Nyman received international recognition, including a gold medal at the 1937 Paris World Exhibition, and her work is represented today in major museum collections. This chandelier demonstrates her ability to combine functional lighting with sculptural composition, while reflecting the high level of craftsmanship that characterised Finnish lighting produced by Idman during the mid-twentieth century.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chandelier has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. The brass showcases a beautiful, slight patina. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
23.22 in W x 21.65 in D x 30.90 in H
59 cm W x 55 cm D x 78.5 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
During the mid-20th century, Scandinavian lighting designers frequently turned to organic forms as a way to soften the harsher industrial modernism. Rather than relying on strict geometry alone, many fixtures incorporated flowing silhouettes inspired by nature, balancing functional lighting with a more decorative and atmospheric presence. Brass was the material of choice during this period, being able to be shaped into sculptural forms that retain their sense of craftsmanship.
This pair of wall lights captures the essence of the era through its branch-like composition and asymmetrical structure. Each fixture is formed from curving brass arms that extend upward in a fluid, botanical arrangement, supporting four individual light sockets positioned throughout the length of the pieces. The lines blow naturally from the wall mount, creating a silhouette that resembles growing stems, and not a mechanical construction. Despite the decorative quality of the composition, the design remains balanced and elegant. The polished brass surface reflects the warm glow of the bulbs, emphasizing the rhythm of the curved forms while adding depth and variation to the surface. The exposed bulbs become part of the design, reinforcing the sculptural appearance and contributing to the soft ambient light produced by the fixtures.
Wall lighting from this period was designed not only to illuminate a room, but also to complement their surroundings through movement and ambiance. These wall lamps fulfill their role through their utilitarian, as well as clear decorative effect. Their combination of fluid brass lines and warm light gives the fixtures a distinct presence without becoming excessive.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The wall lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. There may be minor dents and scratches in the metal. Due to the age and nature of the brass, the wall lamps may have marks, and discolouration. These lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
10.63 in W x 4.33 in D x 31.10 in H
27 cm W x 11 cm D x 79 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell is regarded as one of Finland’s pioneering lighting designers, celebrated for his poetic approach that merged natural inspiration with refined craftsmanship. Working for his company, Taito Oy, during the first half of the 20th century, Tynell was instrumental in shaping the character of Finnish lighting design. His creations often combined brass, glass, and delicate detailing, resulting in fixtures that feel timeless and sophisticated. This hanging lamp, model “1004”, is an exemplary representation of Tynell's artistic vision and technical mastery.
This uniquely decorated hanging lamp was designed in an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models. It was a period of consistency, excellence, and sophistication design wise. Despite its age, this ceiling light has a hint of Art Deco in its design, with sinuous lines and pronounced decorative elements. One of the defining features of 20th century lighting is its marriage of functionality and aesthetics; the era's designers believed that a well-made lighting fixture could serve a practical purpose while also acting as a piece of art, and this lamp is a testament to this sentiment. Moreover, brass was very much one of the most popular materials of the era, and when combined with glass, a sleek shiny look can be created, like this model exemplifies. This material duo makes sense from both a functional and visual standpoint. Not only is brass corrosion-resistant and durable, but it withstands the test of time, developing a beautiful patina as the years go by. Moreover, on the list of decorative elements are the ring on the finial, the rod adorned with a floral element, the curves of the arms, and finally, the way the rod connects to the canopy. These features make this hanging lamp an early example of Tynell’s expressiveness that drew inspiration from previous design movements and eras.
Tynell was a master of peculiar decorative elements that never feel tacky or excessive and this is mainly thanks to his great sense of balance. In 1918 Tynell founded Oy Taito AB, which eventually became the Finnish lighting industry trendsetter during the interwar period. This rare model from the 1930s can easily draw all the attention while not compromising on quality and functionality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the brass, it may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. The brass is patinated. This lamp is compatible with an E27 standard fitting.
Dimensions:
12.2 in W × 8.1 in D × 27.2 in H
31 cm W x 20.5 cm D x 69 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This “2004” pendant lamp, designed by Paavo Tynell for Taito in the 1930s, is a quintessential example of early Finnish modern lighting. Known as “the man who illuminated Finland,” Tynell was a pioneer in bringing elegance, lightness, and innovation to everyday interiors. His designs for Taito helped establish Finnish lighting as a global benchmark, blending functionality with a poetic sensibility that made lamps more than utilitarian objects, but integral elements of atmosphere and style.
This model features a softly stepped opaline glass shade that diffuses light evenly, producing a warm and atmospheric glow. The shade’s gentle form showcases Tynell’s gift for balancing simplicity with refinement, ensuring that the piece remains modest in profile while quietly sophisticated in detail. Suspended from a slender nickel-plated rod attached to a polished canopy, the lamp demonstrates Tynell’s sensitivity to proportion and harmony, qualities that made his designs adaptable to a wide range of interiors. The use of opaline glass was not only functional, providing glare-free illumination ideal for dining or working spaces, but also aesthetic, introducing a soft tone that completes the sheen of the metal fittings. When lit, the lamp enhances its surroundings in a practical, yet atmospheric way through masterful construction, elegant materials, and timeless allure.
Model “2004” was manufactured at Taito. In 1918 Tynell founded Oy Taito AB, which eventually became the Finnish lighting industry trendsetter during the interwar period. This rare model from the 1930s can easily draw all the attention while not compromising on quality and functionality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The pendant lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamp may have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.
Dimensions:
12.79 in ø x 33.46 in H
32.5 cm ø x 85 cm H
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Price category: 30,000 - 40,000 usd / eur
This lamp is one of those models that lighting design enthusiasts recognize immediately, a truly iconic design. Paavo Tynell designed this model “9060” in 1950-52 for the secretariat's room at the United Nations building in New York City.
Lighting designer Paavo Tynell, “the man who illuminated Finland,” was the founder and chief designer of Taito Oy - the first industrial producer of lighting fixtures in Finland. A master craftsman himself, Tynell’s elegant brass designs were derivative of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility. This model is in many ways his most famous ceiling light design and not solely for its impressive story. The design has entirely unique elements such as the glass inside the reflector, the unusual circular finial, and the perforated shade to name a few. All of these features are in service of the unique distribution of the light, provided by four bulbs sitting above the glass inside the white lacquered reflector. The light shines in all directions thanks to the open, hanging brazier-like shade, the open bottom with brass circles, and the patterned, perforated brass. The result is bordering the realm of lighting art, with the brass dressed in golden light. The body is held by two brass rods connected to the rounded canopy. Despite its many distinctive elements, the design is united by its material, the beautiful polished brass, Tynell’s preferred material to work with.
Tynell’s international design influence grew thanks to the Finland House located in New York City and resulted in prestigious commissions both for public buildings such as the United Nations HQ but also for important private collections. Model “9060” is a historic testament of his design prowess and craftsmanship, remaining one of the most coveted lighting pieces to this day.
Condition:
In good vintage condition consistent with age and use. The brass has some weather marks and a beautiful patina.
Dimensions:
21.45 in ⌀ x 20.86 in H
54.5 cm ⌀x 53 cm H
Literature:
Idman, sales catalogues, no. 135, 136, 140, 142, 1953-1959, n.p.
Finland House Lighting: Harmony in lighting for harmony in living, original designs by Paavo Tynell, sales catalogue, New York, p. 23.
About the designer:
Paavo Tynell (1890-1973) was an industrial designer, known as the great pioneer of Finnish lighting design and fondly dubbed as “the man who illuminated Finland”.
Tynell was one of the founders and chief designers of Taito Oy – the first industrial producer of lighting fixtures in Finland. With the innovation of electricity in the beginning of the 20th century, Taito Oy and Tynell expanded the thinking and manufacturing of modern lighting solutions in Europe and abroad.
Paavo Tynell rose to prominence in the 1930s and 40s when he collaborated with some of the most renowned Finnish architects, Alvar Aalto being the most notable one. Working to incorporate artificial lighting into modern environments, Tynell’s company Taito Oy produced fixtures for all of Alvar Aalto’s major projects. Tynell was especially appraised through his involvement with the Finland House, a design atelier in New York that showcased the work of Finnish designers and craftspeople. His elegant brass designs became an instant success in North America, and he began creating lighting designs for the prestigious American company, Lightolier.
Marked by delicacy and softness, his most famous forms in lightning echo the structures of nature; he adroitly created sculptural shapes reminiscent of the branches of trees, swirling snowflakes and seashells. ~H.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Glössner & Co. was a Swedish glass company founded by brothers Karl-Erik and Harry Glössner, active from the 1930s. Known for their decorative glasswork, they produced a range of items including etched and frosted glass, leaded glass windows, and artistic lighting fixtures. Their designs often featured stylised figures, nature motifs, and geometric patterns, all carachteristics found in this ceiling lamp.
Bo Notini was among the most accomplished lighting designers working in Sweden with Glössner & Co.. Notini came from a family of designers, his grandfather Harald and father Gunnar being key figures of Swedish lighting creation. Bo Notini often incorporated etched or sandblasted decoration into understated, elegant forms, in the case of this lamp, they take the form of birds, clouds and raindrops - all elements inspired by nature. These stylised elements are etched on an amber glass shade suspended from a slender brass rod and canopy, creating a light composition. The gently curved sides of the shade soften the simple profile, while the polished brass introduces a subtle metallic counterpoint to the textured glass. When lit, the amber glass diffuses a warm glow that highlights the etched decoration from within. The restrained palette of brass and glass allows the quality of the materials and craftsmanship to remain the focus, resulting in a fixture that is both decorative and highly refined.
Glössner & Co. developed a body of work distinguished by its refined proportions and exceptional glass craftsmanship. This piece remains an elegant example of Swedish lighting design from the 1940s, equally compelling as a source of ambient light and as a finely crafted decorative object.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The pendant lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the age and nature of the chrome, the lamp may have minor marks, scratches and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
12.20 in W x 12.20 in D x 23.22 in H
31 cm W x 31 cm D x 59 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Hans Bergström’s designs are just as scarce today as the information available on the Swedish designer despite their undeniable visual and material quality. Guided by the mantra, “Light must be white and shine freely,” he designed and produced functional yet modern fixtures that were intended to brighten up entire spaces.
Bergström was the founder and creative director of the lighting firm Ateljé Lyktan, which he founded in Åhus in 1934. There he created amazing lighting in various shapes and forms. This unique wall mounted lamp is attributed to the iconic designer. The most distinctive design element of this model is the perforated brass shade. The multitude of small perforations in the metal not only serves an aesthetic function, adding texture and visual interest, but also plays a key role in the diffusion of light; these openings allow for a soft, dappled light to escape, creating a serene star-like pattern on the surrounding wall, further enhancing the lamp's charm. additionally, the slender metal arm is adjustable, allowing the piece to be customised depending on the user’s need. Each component of this brass wall lamp was designed with functionality and elegance in mind, culminating in a piece that transcends simple utility. It is a striking blend of form and function, a luminary that offers not just light, but also a touch of artisanal charm that can enhance the decor and warmth of any contemporary interior.
The 1950s was a period of renewal, prosperity, and optimism following the world wars. This resulted in lighting designers seeking to create pieces that embodied the spirit of the age, reflecting the fast-paced and industrialised world, like this gorgeous model.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have minor dents, marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
7.28 in W x 25.19 in D x 13.58 in H
18.5 cm W x 64 cm D x 34.5 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This marvellous chandelier is a rarity from Swedish designer, Holger Johansson, who created it for his own company, Westal. With a brass frame holding 12 translucent bubble glass shades, grandiose and stylish are the words to describe this model by.
This model has a brass frame consisting of a long, straight brass pole holding 12 shades arranged on three levels; three on the top and bottom, and six on the middle level. This airy arrangement allows the glass spheres to stand out without making the design look cluttered. The shades each sit at the end of a curved brass pole and face upwards unlike most other models from Johansson, making this particular model stand out in the designer’s impressive repertoire. Thanks to the arrangement of the brass poles and bulbs, the chandelier divides the light over three levels, illuminating its surroundings in golden light. When switched on, the light coming from the shades brighten the yellow brass and highlight the glass bubbles beautifully. Commonly associated with old glass, the modern bubble glass techniques consist of intentionally creating bubbles for artistic effect. Controlled bubble glass as seen here, also known as “Bolle” or “Bullicante”, is glass that’s embedded with bubbles. The chandelier’s manufacturer, the Swedish company Westal, is a historic company founded by Holger Johansson in 1947, the same year the first TV test broadcast happened in Sweden. This chandelier has all the characteristics Johansson was famous for: it is elegant and stylish and while the design allows it to be big and shiny, it never becomes tacky.
The best qualities of Swedish mid-century designers’ light fixtures are most often their atmospheric light, disciplined, functionalist design completed by unique solutions and design elements. Exemplified by this chandelier, these qualities are not only timeless, but also ever so eye-catching.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The brass has some minor marks and scratches.
Dimensions:
29.13 in W x 27.95 in D x 56.1 in H
74 cm W x 71 cm D x 142.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Danish lighting of the mid-20th century often combined straightforward construction with materials that brought warmth to otherwise restrained forms. Most of the stunning minimalist designs from the turn of the century to the 1960s captured the imagination of the world, especially the work of Danish creators, who set the high bars for design.
This Danish wall light combines wood, metal and fabric in a design built around that practical arrangement. The lamp is mounted by a compact rectangular metal element, from which a long wooden arm projects outward in an upward curve. The wood has a warm brown tone and tapers slightly toward its outer end, making the reach of the arm appear lighter. Suspended close to the end of the arm is a large custom-made textile shade with a rounded, lantern-like profile: narrow at the top, broad through the middle and drawing inward again toward the bottom. The shade is defined by vertical ribs that give the fabric surface a clear structure. While the light passing through it emphasises each individual section. The contrast between the sweeping wooden arm, small metal fittings and softly rounded shade is particularly effective to create a beautiful piece: the arm establishes a strong horizontal line while the shade hangs beneath it as the visual counterweight.
The extended wooden arm makes the fixture useful beside a bed, sofa or reading chair, where light can be brought forward from the wall rather than fixed directly against it. The result is a distinctly functional piece whose character comes from its construction and contrasting materials, in line with the Danish pursuit of functionality and classic forms.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The brass is patinated. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The shade was custom made by our in-house atelier. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
10.63 in W x 28.74 in D x 18.31 in H
27 cm W x 73 cm D x 46.5 cm H