Set of Three Model "A2-7" Ceiling Lamps by Paavo Tynell for Idman, Finland Mid-20th Century (sold)
































Set of Three Model "A2-7" Ceiling Lamps by Paavo Tynell for Idman, Finland Mid-20th Century (sold)
Finnish mid-century design is characterised by simple, elegant forms that Paavo Tynell was a master of. Like Finnish culture, he embraced timeless beauty, sustainability and a deep connection to the natural world. One of his favourite materials to work with was glass, as this set of three ceiling lamps showcases.
This set embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised modern Finnish design. Still, even in the absence of ornamentation or elaborate shapes and forms, there was always an emphasis on interesting materials. Milk glass, appropriately named for its opaque or transparent ivory white tone, was first created in Venice in the 16th century, known as Lattimo. At that time, it was widely used for decorative purposes and continued to be popular during the 20th century when the material was used to decorate households as home accents. These lamps have an eye-catching shape thanks to the brass ring detail. Still, the edges are just as soft as the light these lamps emit. These pieces are flush mounted without any exposed parts but the glass shades. Tynell was a master of working with milk glass, and his lamps of this material are some of his most sought-after designs.
The mid-century period was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as artists like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. At the same time, there was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, with designers who sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical. Tynell's model "A2-7" lamps embody these qualities perfectly, with clean lines, and a unique, but functional design.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Some scratches and dark spots on the metal. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, and discolouration. Additionally, minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to age and manufacturing inconsistencies. The lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
9.65 in ⌀ x 5.12
24.5 cm ⌀ x 13 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: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Finnish mid-century design is characterised by simple, elegant forms that Paavo Tynell was a master of. Like Finnish culture, he embraced timeless beauty, sustainability and a deep connection to the natural world. One of his favourite materials to work with was glass, as this set of three ceiling lamps showcases.
This pair embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised modern Finnish design. Still, even in the absence of ornamentation or elaborate shapes and forms, there was always an emphasis on interesting materials. Milk glass, appropriately named for its opaque or transparent ivory white tone, was first created in Venice in the 16th century, known as Lattimo. At that time, it was widely used for decorative purposes and continued to be popular during the 20th century when the material was used to decorate households as home accents. These lamps have an eye-catching shape thanks to the brass ring detail. Still, the edges are just as soft as the light these lamps emit. These pieces are flush mounted without any exposed parts but the glass shades. Tynell was a master of working with milk glass, and his lamps of this material are some of his most sought-after designs.
The mid-century period was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as artists like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. At the same time, there was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, with designers who sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical. Tynell's model "A2-7" lamps embody these qualities perfectly, with clean lines, and a unique, but functional design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The ceiling lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. There are minor dents and scratches in the copper. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamps may have marks, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. These lamps are compatible with E27 standard fittings. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
9.64 in ø x 5.12 in H
24.5 cm ø x 13 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
Italian lighting in the 1950s was marked by experimentation, where designers and manufacturers explored new relationships between materials, light, and architectural space. Among the key figures of this movement was Angelo Lelii, founder of Arredoluce, a company with a long tradition for innovation and refined craftsmanship. Lelii’s work is characterised by a balance between technical ingenuity and visual restraint.
Model “12670” reflects this approach, embodying the clarity and precision that defined Italian mid-century lighting while maintaining a distinctly sculptural presence. This pair of wall lamps is defined by the contrast between geometric composition and softness of light. Each fixture is composed of a vertical, rectangular shade that diffuses a warm, ambient glow. To support the glass, a horizontal element in black lacquered metal anchors the composition visually, attaching the shade to the arm fixed on the wall. This interplay between axes introduces a strong architectural quality, giving the lamps a sense of order and rhythm. The wall supports allow the illuminated forms to appear almost detached from the surface when looked at from the right angle. The design relies on contrast not only in form but also in colour: the matte, dark metal adding depth to the overall pieces. The designer’s focus on clarity and balance is evident throughout the model. Rather than relying on ornament, the visual impact is achieved through proportion, juxtaposition, and the controlled diffusion of light.
These lamps function equally well as sources of illumination and as architectural accents. Today, Angelo Lelii’s designs remain highly regarded for their ability to merge engineering with artistry, and model “12670” stands as a strong example of how mid-century Italian lighting continues to resonate in contemporary interiors.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been reconditioned and rewired. Minor discolouration on the glass. Some marks and scratches on the metal. These lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fittings. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
5.52 in W x 6.30 in D x 11.81 in H
14 cm W x 16 cm D x 30 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This chandelier, attributed to Harald Notini and manufactured at Arvid Böhlmarks Lampfabrik in the 1940s, exemplifies the elegance and clarity of mid-century Swedish lighting design. Böhlmarks, one of Sweden’s most renowned lighting manufacturers, was celebrated for its collaborations with leading designers of the time, producing works that blended refined craftsmanship with a distinctly modern aesthetic.
This six-armed chandelier is composed around a central body from which six gracefully curved brass arms extend in perfect symmetry. Each arm terminates in a candle-like socket with a brass flower detail. The arms sweep gently into the shades, creating a rhythmic silhouette that appears light despite the fixture's generous scale. At the centre, the brass body is adorned with a scalloped detail and an elegant finial that draws the eye downward, balancing the composition both visually and structurally. The warm brass surface reflects the light cast through the fabric shades, softening the metal while emphasizing the fluid lines of the framework. Every transition, from the stem to the center, and from the arms to the sockets, is carefully designed, demonstrating the precision of Böhlmarks' metalworking and the thoughtful proportions that distinguish Notini's lighting designs.
A well-chosen lighting piece can embellish and shift the atmosphere of any space. In Scandinavia, interior lighting was of particular importance - with dark winters in the Nordic countries, light has been used to bring a feeling of cosiness and warmth within, referred to as “mysigt” in Swedish, or more widely known as the Danish concept of “hygge”. Swedish designers have mastered the art of “mys”, crafting some of the most unique and modern lamps of Scandinavia, as this beautiful piece demonstrates.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chandelier has recently been reconditioned and rewired. The shades are a later replacement. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have marks, and discolouration. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
24.2 in ø x 18.5 in H
61.5 cm ø x 47 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Itsu, short for Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), was a small, lesser-known manufacturer that produced characteristic models in small quantities. Itsu stands as a beacon of innovation in mid-century modern design. This lamp represents an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models.
The form of this pair is built around an opal glass diffuser that has a slightly conical and rounded profile that gives it subtle depth without becoming visually heavy. With its sleek and simple aesthetic, and in the absence of heavy ornamentation, the emphasis falls on materials. The use of opal glass is central to the design. The diffuser softens the glow and disperses it, creating a more ambient and balanced illumination. The relatively small diameter and shallow projection also means they can be used in tighter spaces without disrupting the proportions of the room.
The 20th century was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as makers pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. At the same time, there was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, as this pair demonstrates. As designers sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical, they left an unforgettable mark in the history of light and ambiance.
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 items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. These lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.
Dimensions:
15.75 in ø x 6.69 in H
40 cm ø x 17 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
It is simply impossible to talk about 20th century lighting without mentioning Finland. By the 1950s, Finland had established itself as a force for innovation. The best qualities of Finnish light fixtures are their atmospheric glow and disciplined, functionalist design that is not short of subtle decorative elements, as this ceiling lamp exemplifies.
Designers working in Finland during the mid-20th century aimed to create lighting that felt modern without becoming cold or overly industrial. Clean silhouettes were combined with warm materials such as brass, wood, and woven elements in order to soften architectural interiors. Rather than relying on excess, emphasis was placed on structure, balance, and the way light interacted with surfaces. The goal was to produce fixtures that served both as functional light sources and as design statements within a room. This ceiling lamp model is made of delicate wooden slats which allow the light to shine through, while giving the fixture a subtle sense of organic texture and symmetry. The material introduces depth and visual warmth, softly diffusing the glow while contrasting with the texture of the smooth brass. The model remains elegant and refined, with a central brass element beneath the shade further offering visual interest to the composition. When turned on, the lamp produces an even and inviting light that works well above a dining table, in a living room, or in a more intimate sitting area. Its proportions make it suitable for a range of interiors, while the combination of brass and organic material ensures versatility.
In the mid-20th century, Idman Oy played a pivotal role in shaping the Finnish design landscape. The company collaborated with renowned designers and artists, resulting in a portfolio of iconic pieces that continue to be cherished today. This model - with its blend of materials, impeccable craftsmanship, and timeless design - remains a testament to the company's dedication to creating objects of enduring beauty.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the lamp has some 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 ø × 13.39 in H
41.5 cm ø x 34 cm H
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 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 shade 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 set of wall lights bridges architectural precision with decorative warmth. Whether installed individually or as four, 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 items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
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: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
French lighting manufacturer Lunel became known for producing elegant modernist fixtures that balanced sculptural form with functional clarity. Collaborating with designers such as René Mathieu, the company developed fixtures that combined elegant engineering with sculptural forms, often introducing articulated arms and highly distinctive shades that transformed functional lighting into expressive design objects.
This wall lamp reflects that direction through its minimalist construction and carefully balanced proportions. A long, slender arm projects confidently from the wall to hold a striking diabolo-shaped shade, formed by two opposing cones joined by a patinated brass collar to create an hourglass-like profile that immediately draws attention. Its light, pale surface contrasts sharply against the darker metal structure, while the black ring detail at the centre visually ties the shade back to the frame below. The articulated arm allows the lamp to be adjusted with ease, extending its functionality while enhancing its visual appeal. At the same time, the small wooden detail showcases the precision and attention poured into every part of this piece.
The combination of adjustable construction and sculptural form reflects the spirit of French mid-century lighting at its best. Many of the pieces produced by Maison Lunel borrow the same sober and refined design vocabulary, which makes them highly sought after by collectors and design aficionados alike.
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 marks, scratches, and discolouration. The wood and brass hinge cover is a later replacement. The shade is a later replacement. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
12.59 in W x 57.87 in D x 35.03 in H
32 cm W x 147 cm D x 89 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
By the 1950s, Finland had established itself as a force for innovation in design. The best qualities of Finnish light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design that is not short of unique elements. These wall lamps were manufactured by Itsu, or Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), a small, then lesser-known manufacturer that produced characteristic models in small quantities.
This pair stands as evidence to the era's minimalist aesthetic. These wall lamps are not only embodiment’s of simplicity and elegance, showcasing a design ethos that continues to captivate admirers today, but also illustrate how simple design can be so ingenious and expressive at the same time. The modernistic look of this pair is achieved through the simple yet smart silhouette. The look is almost industrial, yet has the edge of early mid-century modernism. The rounded shape of these lamps is very effective in highlighting the opal glass and the copper reflectors. The mix of materials is a classic example of the contrast and harmony that Finnish design often seeks to achieve. Beyond the structural aspects, the copper’s aesthetic charm is undeniable; its rich patina and finish transform ordinary interiors into elegant and rich spaces. Furthermore, Finnish designers’ powerful abilities as architects are reflected in many of the lighting designs of the era, including this pair. They are a stylish representation of mature modernism that the Nordic country has been a master of since the 19th century.
Overall, the composition of the shapes and materials give these lamps a personality that isn’t loud but still stands out. The impression of this pair is fresh with a retro touch, sure to bring interest to any area in need of decor as a piece of design history.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Minor dents and scratches are present. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks and discolouration. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
8.46 in W × 13.19 in D × 7.48 in H
21.5 cm W x 33.5 cm D x 19 cm H