While Hans-Agne Jakobsson designed and produced various types of furniture, his lighting received greater international attention - and not without good reason. As these “V-220” wall lamps showcase, the Swedish designer was a master of both the direction and colour of his lighting designs.

With each brass frame holding two tinted glass shades, these lamps clearly show the Swedish designer’s studies in architecture, with beautiful geometric forms and symmetry dominating the structures. The sconce is a wall-mounted lighting fixture, traditionally used to hold candles or torches. This pair of sconces additionally have a structural design that is reminiscent of a torch. The glass is transparent, letting the brass and light bulbs show, further enhancing the torch-like look.

The simple design of these lamps is clean with a straightforwardly modern look. Combining the brass structures with the glass shades, this pair of sconces is brilliant in its simplicity. The prowess of the designer becomes evident as these models stand as statement pieces despite their minimalism. Since the two materials - brass and glass - dictate the look, much attention was paid to their quality and to the craftsmanship that united them into the torch-like shape to create an effortlessly modern look.

The design has great proportions, and when lit, these lamps create an exceptionally atmospheric light, giving the brass a vivid colour as well. Sconces are a timeless type of lighting fixture that can easily elevate their surroundings, and never go out of style.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks on the brass.

Dimensions:

4.33 in W x 6.69 in D x 9.25 in H

11 cm W x 17 cm D x 23.5 cm H

About the Designer:

Born in 1919 in Gotland, Sweden, Hans Agne Jakobsson is one of the most well-known Swedish lighting designers. He did his carpenter apprenticeship before studying architecture in Gothenburg.

First working as an industrial designer for General Motors, he later founded his own company after being an assistant to the designers Carl Malmsten and Werner West. In 1950, due to Christmas, he added a model of hanging lamps in small strips of pine in one of his stores to soften the lively lighting of the shop window. The people who were passing by were immediately seduced by this hanging lamp, which started it all. He established his own company in 1951: Hans Agne Jakobsson AB and began producing this model in his factories and achieved success abroad as well. In 50 years, he designed more than 2000 lamps with unique designs.

He used materials and experimented with multiple techniques, for example using fabrics with fringes, blown glass of colour and smoked glass. His great diversity resulted in a wide range of timeless lighting models. These pieces continue to seduce design lovers, as they adapt themselves to any interior, without blending into the background.

Today, Jakobsson’s works can be found in private homes as well as public institutions throughout Sweden. The designer passed away in 2009 in Sweden, leaving behind a great legacy. ~H.