Five Arm Brass and Glass Ceiling Light by Hans Bergström for ASEA, Sweden ca 1950s (sold)
















Five Arm Brass and Glass Ceiling Light by Hans Bergström for ASEA, Sweden ca 1950s (sold)
The Danes call it Hygge, the Swedes Lagom, and the Norwegians, Friluftsliv. When it comes to Scandinavian interiors, these expressions mean clear design that can be enjoyed without being distracted by too many details. Lighting, in particular, plays an essential role in creating a soothing ambience.
While flush mount lighting sits directly against the ceiling, semi-flush mount fixtures are suspended, leaving a small gap between the ceiling and fixture. As this model shows, this gap allows for an uplit effect, while providing a direct downward light. This ceiling fixture therefore produces a better ambient light effect than flush mount fixtures. This is also the result of the simple but effective design that is in service of functionality and the Swedish idea of “good design”. Like most Swedish light fixtures of the era, the design assumes a more minimalist look that does not contain prisms and illuminates the space with direct light from the lightbulbs. The brass structure is quite traditional, with a cone-shaped base that holds five symmetrically arranged arms with each holding a downward-facing milk glass shade. The shape and material of the shades sets the overall aesthetic of this model, introducing modernism to a classic, multi-armed ceiling light style. When turned on the warm light brightens up the brass’s colour, creating a warm, cosy impression. The design is very successful in mixing the traditional and modern elements, while staying true to the guiding principles of Swedish modernism. Asea AB, founded in 1883, was a Swedish electrotechnical company headquartered in Västerås. The historic company not only produced outstanding lighting such as this ceiling light model, but has had a decisive influence on how the Swedish electrotechnical industry has developed as well. The piece also showcases the beautiful work of its designer, Hans Bergström modernist approach based on quality and architectural precision.
Surrounded by stunning natural features, Sweden has developed a unique, nature-loving and understated interior design style. Ceiling fixtures, such as this Swedish model, have an important role to create an ambience that is cosy and stylish while not compromising on quality and functionality.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
24 in ø x 10.43 in H
61 cm ø x 26.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Hans Bergström’s designs are just as scarce today as the information available on the Swedish designer, despite his undeniable quality of output. Guided by the mantra, “Light must be white and shine freely,” he designed and produced functional and modern fixtures that were intended to brighten up entire spaces.
The beauty of these stylish lamps lies in the combination of materials, including the accent wooden necks, the brass elements and the scalloped edged shades. The pairing of brass and wood creates an interesting visual effect, where the organic and traditional look of the wood meets the modern look of brass. Swedish lighting manufacturers, like ASEA, were masters of creating designs with great textural variety - as this lovely table lamp shows. The brass elements tie the materials together in a design that is indeed innovative and modern, yet still fresh to the contemporary eye. The beautiful colours and textures of the materials are further emphasised when the light is turned on by the switch on the base. This elegant pair casts an atmospheric light and thus contributes to the warmth of an interior but also fits perfectly on an elegant surface.
This lamp model effortlessly shows off Bergström’s creativity that he always paired with structural precision and material quality. Hans Bergström had a modernist approach based on quality and attention to detail, and was the favourite lighting designer of many fellow architects, among them Bruno Mathsson.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been reconditioned and rewired. The shades are later replacements. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the items may have marks, and discolouration. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.35 in ⌀ x 22.63 in H
39 cm ⌀ x 57.5 cm H