Nils Kähler Glazed Ceramic Table Lamp, Denmark Second half of the 20th Century (sold)
Nils Kähler Glazed Ceramic Table Lamp, Denmark Second half of the 20th Century (sold)
Scandinavian countries have achieved world-wide renown by incorporating a modern aesthetic into their traditional craft industries, resulting in era-defining pieces with an unparalleled inventiveness. Nils Kähler was part of a renowned Danish ceramics family and was celebrated for his ability to translate traditional pottery techniques into modern forms that resonated with mid-century sensibilities. This lamp reflects that heritage, balancing decorative surface treatment with a pure and elegant silhouette.
Produced during the second half of the 20th century, this lamp is a refined example of Scandinavian design where craftsmanship and material experimentation meet timeless functionality. The lamp features a tall, tapering ceramic base with a richly textured glaze. Its surface features tonal variations and a subtle geometric pattern. The glaze work exemplifies Kähler’s skill, combining earthy tones with a glossy finish that shifts with the light, giving the piece both visual complexity and organic warmth. The cylindrical linen shade complements the lengthened base, diffusing light softly and evenly, while allowing the ceramic body to remain the focal point. The proportions are carefully considered: the slender profile of the base contrasts with its texture, resulting in a lamp that is both bold and understated. This interplay between form, glaze, and light is quintessentially Scandinavian, where functionality is elevated through artistry and material sensitivity.
As an object, the lamp reflects the mid-20th century Danish pursuit of everyday beauty, objects designed not just to serve, but to enrich domestic environments. With its ties to Kähler’s ceramic tradition, this table lamp stands as a collectible yet practical piece, equally suited to contemporary and traditional interiors.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired. The shade is a later replacement.
Dimensions:
9.84 in ø x 22.63 in H
25 cm ø x 57.5 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Kähler Keramik, founded in Næstved in 1839, became one of the defining names in Danish studio ceramics through its combination of traditional craftsmanship and artistic experimentation. The sons of Herman H.C. Kähler, Nils and Herman, took over the Kähler family’s ceramic business in the 1940s. The two brothers began their careers as designers, but Nils quickly assumed control of the artistic direction. Nils Kähler was celebrated for his ability to translate traditional pottery techniques into modern forms that resonated with mid-century sensibilities, producing stoneware that emphasised sculptural form, richly developed glazes and hand-worked surface decoration.
Produced during the 1950s, this pair of lamps is a refined example of Danish ceramic design where craftsmanship and material experimentation meet functionality. Each lamp features a tall, finely proportioned stoneware base where the shape moves from a compact cylindrical foot into a long tapering neck. The eye-catching lower sections are covered in a rich blue glaze, thick, deep and full of colour nuances, with subtle diagonal ridges giving the bases a great amount of texture. The glossy blue surfaces highlight Kähler’s artistic touch, while the unglazed clay above has a rough, almost rusty feel that contrasts strongly with the rich glaze below. Each lamp rises into the fitting through the long straight neck. Wide scalloped fabric shades complete the composition, their gently undulating lower edges echoing the rounded ceramic bases and giving the pair a warm, inviting feel. When illuminated, the soft light accentuates the tones of the exposed stoneware and the depth of the blue glaze.
As a pair, the lamps represent the strengths of Danish mid-century design, where simplicity allowed material, form and light to shine. With their ties to Kähler’s ceramic tradition, they offer a blend of artistry, craftsmanship and everyday usability. Stylish yet understated, these lamps stand as a refined expression of Nils Kähler’s design legacy, with the richly glazed ceramic bases and warm scalloped shades giving them a particularly strong presence when placed together.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table lamps have recently been reconditioned and rewired. The shades are a later replacement. Due to the age and nature of the material, the lamps may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. These lamps are compatible with E26 / E27 (standard) fittings. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.75 in ø x 21.65 in H
40 cm ø x 55 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
20th century Danish design emerged as a golden era where form seamlessly intertwined with function, giving rise to creative and unique pieces that continue to captivate contemporary sensibilities. Designers from the region like Nis Stougaard brought a refreshing breath of innovation to modern ceramic design.
Meticulously crafted, this table lamp showcases the incredible skill and talent of the attributed designer, Nis Stougaard. The sculptural form takes inspiration from nature, having an organic, fluid look. Surpassing strict functionality, it is a whimsical representation of the innovative experimentation in Danish lighting design. What makes this lamp particularly appealing is the contrast between its restrained form and its highly expressive materiality. The silhouette is simple, yet the surface reveals layer upon layer of visual interest through texture, colour, and craftsmanship. The lampshade’s drum shape contributes to this look as well, while it also balances out the thick stoneware body. The fabric of the shade is quite textural with an elegant and stylish look that stands out even more when the lamp is lit. Combined with the stoneware, the design offers a variety of points of visual interest.
The overall aesthetic of this piece is essentially Nordic modern thanks to the combination of interesting materials, texture and a design inspired by nature. This table lamp feels unique, yet comfortingly familiar, being the perfect addition when it comes to interior decor.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade is a later replacement. Minor scratches. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
19.69 in ø × 17.91 in H
50 cm ø x 45.5 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This pair of table lamps was designed by Danish artist Einar Johansen and produced by Søholm Stentøj. The manufactory was one of the oldest names in Danish ceramics, founded in Rønne on the Baltic island of Bornholm in 1835 and remaining in production until 1996. Johansen trained as a painter at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen, an artistic background that is evident in the strong use of colour, relief and surface throughout his ceramic work.
Each lamp has a compact stoneware body covered in a richly varied glaze of deep blue, brown and golden highlights. The surfaces are adorned with distinctive decorative elements on the body, displaying sculptural motifs shaped like fluted steps running down the sides and creating separated sections. Glaze gathers differently across these ridges and recesses, allowing it to emphasise the depth of the decoration. The rounded bodies taper at the necks, creating a clear transition between the dense ceramic bases and the broad shades above. Both lamps are paired with wide fabric shades in a warm natural tone. Their visible texture and softly diffused light complement the strong ceramic surfaces below. The overall aesthetic is essentially Nordic modern thanks to the combination of interesting material choices and a design that feels organic and natural.
During the middle of the twentieth century, Einar Johansen created a wide range of stoneware for Søholm that combined functional forms with a distinctly artistic treatment of ceramic surfaces. Presented as a pair, these lamps have an especially strong decorative presence; they are not just functional objects but pieces of art that encapsulate the organic aesthetic of mid-20th century design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shades are later replacements. Due to the nature and age of the material, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. These lamps are compatible with E26 / E27 (standard) fittings. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
13.98 in ø × 17.91 in H
35.5 cm ø x 45.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Olle Alberius was one of Sweden's foremost ceramic and glass designers during the 20th century. After studying at the Konstfack University of Arts, Crafts and Design in Stockholm, he joined Rörstrand in 1963, where he designed both unique stoneware and glass pieces. Founded in 1726, Rörstrand is one of Sweden's oldest and most celebrated ceramic manufacturers, renowned for combining artistic innovation with exceptional craftsmanship over nearly three centuries.
Alberius' work for the company is admired for its refined forms, expressive glazes, and sensitive understanding of ceramic material, all qualities perfectly encapsulated in this table lamp. This piece is defined by its tall stoneware body, finished in a deep blue glaze that shifts in tone across the surface, from rich navy to a sandy-grey. This vertical movement of colour enhances the form. The surface retains slight irregularities, reflecting the handmade nature of the piece. Above, the broad, conical shade introduces a strong geometric element, diffusing the light evenly and balancing the expressive base. The relationship between these two elements creates a cohesive and well-proportioned composition. No aspect of this piece was overlooked in the design process, with the quality craftsmanship being rooted in the rich history of the lamp, as well as in its unique characteristics.
With its refined form and aesthetic, this model “8303” table lamp is more than a source of light—it is a statement piece that reflects Swedish design principles of the mid-century period. Its organic feel and modern influences allow it to blend seamlessly into contemporary settings, while still embodying the unique heritage of mid-century Scandinavian artistry.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. The shade is a later replacement. Due to the age and nature of the stoneware, the lamp may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
14.96 in ø × 25.00 in H
38 cm ø x 63.5 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Axella Keramik was one of the many Danish ceramic workshops that contributed to the flourishing studio pottery movement of the second half of the twentieth century. During this period, Danish designers like Jette Hellerøe increasingly explored stoneware as a medium for both functional and decorative objects, embracing organic forms, textured surfaces, and experimental glazing techniques.
The Danish design paradigm focuses on mixing practicality, modern aesthetics and expert craftsmanship. This table lamp is the embodiment of modern design’s widely loved characteristics. The body is constructed out of glazed stoneware, offering the piece a natural feel enhanced by the textured pattern. As light falls across the surface on the oval body, the recessed areas catch the shadows while the raised elements become subtly highlighted, giving the base a constantly shifting appearance. The earthy glaze further enriches this effect, blending warm browns, sandy beiges, and soft grey undertones that settle differently across the relief, emphasising the handmade character. The darker hues of the ceramic body also exude a sense of warmth and elegance, making it a versatile piece that can complement a variety of interior styles, from modern to rustic.
The overall aesthetic of this piece is essentially Nordic modern thanks to the combination of interesting materials, texture and a design inspired by nature. This table lamp is beautifully unique and can be the perfect addition when it comes to interior decor.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade is a later replacement. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks and scratches. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.94 in ø x 28.35 in H
40.5 cm ø x 72 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
The Art Deco movement, which emerged in the early 20th century, is known for its bold geometric shapes, luxurious materials, and an emphasis on streamlined forms. Art Deco came as a reaction against the flowing, organic lines of Art Nouveau, thus opting for symmetry, order, and elegance. Influenced by modernity and industrialisation, Art Deco pieces often features polished finishes, and an overall sense of opulence, designed to elevate everyday spaces.
This lamp exemplifies the refined geometry and material richness characteristic of the movement. The piece is constructed from patinated bronze and frosted glass, and the materials’ tones elegantly highlight both the age and craftsmanship. The interplay between the rich patina of the bronze and the milk-white shade creates a harmonious contrast. The visual interest of this lamp is accentuated by the form of the female figurine that is suspended from the wall, mounting to the shade. Wall lamps such as this are a timeless example of how thoughtful craftsmanship can result in lighting fixtures that transcend their utilitarian purpose, becoming works of art in their own right. Today, we consider Art Deco and the early 20th century era a golden age for lighting design. During these decades, some of the most significant luminaries were created, and remain highly sought-after today.
This wall lamp bridges sculptural presence and domestic functionality. It embodies the enduring qualities of the Art Deco movement in Europe: geometric refinement, tonal richness, and atmospheric light. The qualities transform it into a bold design statement, while still able to complement a modern space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Imperfections on the glass may also be present due to age and manufacturing inconsistencies. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.
Dimensions:
3.94 in W × 4.33 in D × 19.88 in H
10 cm W x 11 cm D x 50.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Distinctive in numerous ways, this stoneware table lamp showcases the versatility that characterised the mid-century era. Crafted by Bartholdy Keramik, a pottery workshop founded by Benny Bartholdy Pedersen in the early 1960s, this piece surpasses the strict functionality many designers were concerned with and is a representation of the innovative experimentation in Scandinavian ceramic lighting design.
The Danish appreciation of nature and simplicity can be observed through the earthy tones of this table lamp, from brown to shades of beige and grey. The dark hues of the ceramic body also exude a sense of strength and elegance, making it a versatile piece that can complement a variety of interior styles, from modern to rustic. The body is composed of a wider cylindrical base and a narrower, elongated neck, creating a stable yet light composition. The surface displays texture, reminding of the material’s natural qualities. The shade introduces a layer of warmth when the lamp is turned on, diffusing the light into an ambient glow that complements the stoneware below. The relationship between these elements is balanced and deliberate, with the shade acting as a beautiful counterpoint to the expressive base.
What gives this lamp its presence is the way it feels anchored without appearing heavy. The geometry is simple, yet the surface carries enough detail to hold attention. Whether placed on a side table or console, its material qualities can be appreciated without needing excess ornament to stand out.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade is a later replacement. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.75 in ø x 23.82 in H
40 cm ø x 60.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Kähler Keramik, founded in Næstved in 1839, became one of the defining names in Danish studio ceramics through its combination of traditional craftsmanship and artistic experimentation. Under the direction of fourth-generation potter Nils Kähler, the workshop embraced a distinctly modern approach during the post-war decades, producing stoneware that emphasised sculptural form, richly developed glazes, and hand-worked surface decoration.
Dating from the mid-20th century, this table lamp is formed from glazed stoneware with a compact yet rounded body that stands out through its size. The surface is the main decorative feature of this piece. A warm honey-yellow glaze covers the body, shifting from lighter tones around the shoulder to deeper browns, with a cracked surface. The effect of the glaze is enhanced by closely spaced incisions across the body, producing a textured pattern. The glaze settles differently across the sections, making the decoration more visible. A short, darker, unglazed neck rises above the rounded form, providing a transition between the body and the shade. The cylindrical fabric shade is broad in relation to the base, giving the lamp a low, balanced profile while allowing the textured stoneware to remain clearly visible below.
As a whole, the lamp represents the strengths of Danish mid-century design, where simplicity was a way of allowing material, form, and light to shine and create visual interest. Kähler’s work sits within this tradition, with pieces such as this table lamp carrying his legacy.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade is a later replacement. Due to the age and nature of the glazed stoneware, the lamp may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
16.34 in W x 9.84 in D x 17.72 in H
41.5 cm W x 25 cm D x 45 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
The Swedish company ASEA was established in the early 1900s and has a renowned legacy in the world of high-quality lighting design models for residential and commercial spaces. The company was broadly known for its more large-scale projects, such as steam turbines or locomotives. However, starting in 1911, they started to catch the eyes of design lovers for their commitment to excellence, reflected in the numerous collaborations with prominent architects and designers such as Lisa Johansson-Pape and Sven Aage Holm Sørensen. These partnerships have resulted in innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing lighting solutions that are highly sought after.
ASEA's dedication to minimalist design, distinctive details, and premium materials is evident in their timeless pieces, including this floor lamp. Model “E1815,” is constructed from a slender, forward-leaning stem rising from a low circular cast-iron base. The lower section of the stem is dark, visually extending the black base upward before transitioning into a lighter brass shaft. This contrast gives the lamp a clear vertical juxtaposition of materials. The brass stem continues uninterrupted toward the shade, then curves into a loop at the top. Suspended from this curved section is a small tapered fabric shade, angled downward so that the light is concentrated below. The shade’s shape allows the stem to pass through, creating a unique visual effect. Chromatically, its pale fabric provides a softer counterpoint to the dark iron and warm brass. With no decorative elements added to the base or shaft, the visual interest comes from the materials, angled form and the curved design detail and the top.
Surrounded by stunning natural features, Sweden has developed a unique, and understated interior design style. Floor lamps, such as this 1950s model have an important role to create an ambience that is cosy and stylish while not compromising on quality and functionality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The floor lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade was custom made by our in-house atelier. The brass is patinated and has marks and discolouration. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item has minor scratches, dents, and imperfections. This lamp is compatible with an E27 / E26 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
17.12 in W x 10.23 in D x 54.33 in H
43.5 cm W x 26 cm D x 138 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This table lamp was designed by the brilliant Danish artist, Einar Johansen, and produced by Søholm Stentøj (Søholm Stoneware), a pottery studio located on the island of Bornholm. Johansen was a leading Danish ceramic designer of the mid-20th century. He originally trained as a painter at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen where he honed his artistic skills before his employment at Søholm Stentøj.
This model “1052” table lamp features a striking ceramic base defined by geometric facets that create a strong, architectural form. The sharp angles, combined with the rich colour of the ceramic remind almost of a raw crystal or precious stone. The rich blue glaze introduces depth and tonal variation across the surface. Subtle shifts in colour emphasise the handmade character of the piece, striving to transmit the unique charm of the piece. The wide conical shade complete the look, its wide form balancing the body and ensuring that the glow is distributed beautifully throughout any room the lamp is placed in. The lamp reflects the Scandinavian ability to combine bold form with restrained elegance. With its playful design and intriguing glazing technique the table lamp provides plenty of visual interest.
Danish ceramic design of this period balanced functional clarity with artistic individuality to elevate everyday objects. The pieces that came as a result continue to impress to this day. Timeless and expressive, this table lamp works effortlessly as both a functional light source and a decorative accent.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade is a later replacement. Due to the age and nature of the material, the lamp may have marks, scratches and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
19.68 in ø x 23.62 in H
50 cm ø x 60 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Danish sculptor and ceramic artist Per Linnemann-Schmidt was born in Copenhagen in 1912. He inherited his artistic lineage from his father, the renowned Danish sculptor Willie Wulff (1881-1962). Linnemann-Schmidt embarked on his artistic journey in 1931, enrolling at the Royal Academy of Art in Copenhagen, where he honed his expertise in life and figure drawing, as well as sculpting in clay, plaster, and bronze. In 1949, Per established Palshus Stentøj (Stoneware) in Sengeløse, and this was where he developed this beautiful table lamp.
This model stands as a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of Danish design during the 1970s. Its clean lines and classic form are characteristic of the period, combining minimalist sophistication with rich materials to create a lamp that feels both contemporary and timeless. The overall design has a clear focus on the ceramic body. The piece features a beautiful glaze in a brown colour. The design is further elevated by its fabric shade, which provides a soft, diffused light that enhances the ambiance of any room. The contrast between the dark body and the light, oval shade creates a harmonious balance, emphasising the lamp's sculptural qualities while still ensuring its functionality. The shade's simple, clean lines also reinforces the artistic manner of Per Linnemann-Schmidt's work. This piece not only serves as a functional source of light but also as a sculptural element in a room, embodying the Danish design principles of form, function, and beauty.
Surpassing the strict functionality many designers were concerned with, this model is a stunning representation of the innovative experimentation in Danish lighting design. The craftsmanship involved in creating this piece is evident in the seamless construction and attention to detail, and allows it to become the perfect addition to a range of interior styles.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the stoneware, the lamp may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The shade is a later replacement. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.75 in W × 10.04 in D × 22.44 in H
40 cm W x 25.5 cm D x 57 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Founded by Philipp Rosenthal in Selb, Germany, in 1879, Rosenthal began as a porcelain painting business before establishing its own porcelain factory in 1891. From an early stage, the company combined porcelain manufacturing with an interest in contemporary design. Fast forward to 1950, Philip Rosenthal Jr. joined the company and became closely involved with product design, eventually playing a decisive role in its development. He created Rosenthal studio-line, giving a distinct identity to the company’s more design-focused production and its collaborations with contemporary artists, designers and architects.
This 1970s ceramic table lamp belongs to that later period, when Rosenthal’s long tradition of ceramic manufacturing was increasingly connected with international modern design. The ceramic base has a bold bottle-shaped profile, with a broad cylindrical lower body flowing into a narrow neck. Shallow vertical ridges run around the body, subtly breaking up the curved surface and creating highlights and shadows. The glaze is rich, combining rusty browns and amber tones across the surface. A broad cylindrical fabric shade sits at the top, its generous width echoing the bold and plump ceramic beneath it. When illuminated, the warm textile filters the light softly and brings out the deep colour of the glossy glaze, allowing the ceramic surface to become animated.
The lamp has a strong presence without requiring an elaborate form, while the subtle details give the ceramic enough character to remain interesting. Its classic form and quality reflect the generational tradition of great ceramicists and designers that came together to build the history of Rosenthal’s studio-line.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade is a later replacement. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.74 in ø × 22.63 in H
40 cm ø x 57.5 cm H