Abstract Ceramic Table Lamp, France 1960s (sold)
Abstract Ceramic Table Lamp, France 1960s (sold)
With its emphasis on material and form, this table lamp captures the 1960s European interest in organic abstraction, tactile surfaces, and honest construction. Both artistic and practical, it exemplifies the era’s distinctive craftsmanship.
This table lamp stands out through its sculptural ceramic base, finished in a rich glaze with shifting tones of black, brown and green. These dark hues exude a sense of warmth and elegance, allowing it to complement a variety of interior styles, from modern to rustic. The layered surface highlights the natural variation of the fired clay. Its abstract body is further distinguished by irregular cut-out openings and added geometric forms, which create a dynamic interplay of shape and shadow. The green glaze lining the interior creates a striking contrast that enhances the sense of depth. Crafted from ceramic, the body celebrates the material’s tactility, with a textured surface. The shade - made from carefully bound rattan splints - introduces a light and airy contrast to the solid base, making for a lovely effect when the light is lit. Rattan is a material traditionally associated with folk craftsmanship that reflects the commitment to preserving cultural roots while embracing contemporary design trends, reinforcing the lamp’s connection to artisanal tradition.
Timeless and expressive, this table lamp works effortlessly as both a functional light source and a decorative accent.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The rattan shade was custom made by our in-house atelier. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
17.71 in Ø x 24.80 in H
45 cm Ø x 63 cm H
Shade:
17.71 in Ø x 9.44 in H
45 cm Ø x 24 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Maison Arlus, a French lighting design company, was founded in the early 20th century by Robert and Jean Arlus. The company quickly gained recognition for its innovative and stylish lighting fixtures characterised by their use of high-quality materials and focus on unique design, like this one.
The form of this wall lamp assumes a more minimalist look at first glance, yet is coupled with subtle decorative elements that add to the uniqueness of the piece. This lamp features an ebonised wooden that holds the shade. Rather than hiding the material under paint, ebonisation treats the wood from the inside to a deep black tone that allows the natural grain to remain visible. This allows the piece to project the elegance and impact of genuine ebony, while maintaining a lighter weight. On the other hand, the shade is made of opal glass. Its opacity conceals the light sources and diffuses the illumination evenly, producing a warm, atmospheric glow. The cylindric shade juxtaposes the square base, creating a beautiful visual effect. The contrast is also chromatic, with the off-white shade sitting within the dark wood. Additionally, the diamond brass element completes the look with a touch of sophistication. Today, we consider the mid-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.
Over the years, Maison Arlus collaborated with a number of notable designers, including Jacques Biny, Pierre Guariche, and Michel Buffet, and continued to produce a wide range of lighting fixtures that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This French table lamp is a statement piece that draws the eye despite its relative simplicity. While the three main materials dictate the look, much attention was paid to their quality and to the craftsmanship.
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, chips and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with a B22 fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
4.84 in ø x 12.99 in H
12.3 cm ø x 33 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
French lighting manufacturer Maison Lunel became known for producing 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.
The French company popularised the use of lacquered tubular metal and brass in the creation of lighting fixtures. Many of the pieces produced by Maison Lunel borrow the same refined design vocabulary, which makes them highly sought after by collectors and design aficionados alike. This wall lamp combines three main materials to create a stunning look. The sculptural profile balances geometric precision with an organic flow, creating a visual rhythm between the materials. The contrast between the dark lacquered metal and the shiny golden brass creates a harmonious balance and adds another sculptural dimension to the piece. The diabolo shade's simple, clean lines align perfectly with the lamp's overall aesthetic, reinforcing the artistic manner of the mid-century period. Furthermore, the light, when diffused through the fabric shade, casts a warm and inviting glow, creating an ambiance that is both cosy and comforting, which is enhanced by the hue of the brass. The most striking part of this piece is the wall mounting, its belt-like form gives the illusion that the brass rod is floating through the circular element, which greatly adds to the visual interest of the design. It is said that a well-chosen lighting piece can change the overall look of a room and how it feels to inhabit the space. This model is the perfect addition to bring a touch of elegance to any space without it being overwhelming.
The combination of adjustable construction and sculptural form reflects the spirit of French mid-century lighting at its best. From the unique design and materials to the innovative techniques, this lamp offers plenty visual interest.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The shade was custom made by our in-house atelier. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
12 in W x 51.38 in D x 15.94 in H
30.5 cm W x 130.5 cm D x 40.5 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
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
The mid-century era was marked by a departure from ornate, intricate designs and a shift towards simplicity, functionality, and a seamless blend of form and usability. Evident with this floor lamp, mid-century lighting fixtures are characterised by their sleek silhouettes, geometric shapes, and innovative use of materials.
At the very beginning of modernism, many designers started to balance modern creativity and classical elegance. By entering the mid-century modern era, lighting design across Europe became known for being stylish, clear, and elegant with a creative edge. This floor lamp exemplifies the refinement that defines both the era and Stablet’s pieces. Brass, a favourite material in mid century modern design, gives the piece a subtle luminosity that ages gracefully, while the custom made fabric shade softens the light to create an inviting, intimate atmosphere. The beautiful construction allows for the lamp to look light and airy, yet still appear grounded. The softly structured shade creates a beautiful diffused glow - its fabric adding texture and depth to the otherwise minimal silhouette. Perfect for interiors that value subtlety and craftsmanship, this floor lamp offers a timeless presence without calling attention to itself. Its quiet elegance and warm material palette allow it to integrate effortlessly into both modern and traditional spaces.
This mid-modern floor lamp combines quality craftsmanship with a timeless and versatile design which shines in any interior. The enduring popularity of the design stands as a testament to its continuous allure, and ability to enhance both the look and the feel of a living space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. The shade was custom made by our in-house atelier. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
13.97 in W x 28.54 in D x 59.64 in H
35.5 cm W x 72.5 cm D x 151.5 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
Jane Wålstedt (1917–2009) was one of the leading Swedish ceramists of the 1950s. Wålstedt trained at Tekniska skolan in Stockholm which later became Konstfack, then subsequently worked with several ceramic workshops before settling in Laholm. In 1950, Wålstedt and her husband Nils Larsson established their own workshop, JANI-keramik, where they experimented with different clays, glazing techniques and decorative methods, with Wålstedt particularly responsible for the decorative work.
This sizable table lamp from the 1950s has a tall ceramic base with a narrow, elongated profile that gradually tapers towards the neck. The body is covered in a rich blue-green glaze with variations of turquoise, grey and earthy brown appearing across the irregular surface. A geometric pattern runs around the body, formed from stacked angular sections crossed by incised lines and circular details. The glaze gathers within these recessed areas, producing outlines and emphasising the relief of the decoration. Small patches of warmer colours remain visible between the blue and green tones, adding further variation to the surface. Above the decorated body, the base narrows considerably into a long brown neck with a rougher texture. This change in both colour and surface creates a clear division between the lower section and the simpler upper part. The tall cylindrical fabric shade completes the lamp, continuing the vertical proportions of the ceramic base while introducing a warm natural tone. When illuminated, the fabric produces a soft glow that complements the earthy brown clay and brings out the blue-green variations of the glaze.
The combination of geometric decoration of this lamp, alongside its richly varied glaze and proportions gives the lamp a particularly individual character and represents the experimental approach to ceramic surfaces found in Jane Wålstedt’s work. Its height and strong surface allow the ceramic to function as a decorative object in its own right, while the narrow footprint makes it easy to place on a console, side table or low cabinet.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade was custom made by our in-house atelier. Due to the age and nature of the material, 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:
16.53 in ø × 52.75 in H
42 cm ø x 134 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This pair of model “1031'“ table lamps was designed by the brilliant Danish artist, Einar Johansen, and produced by Søholm Stentøj (Søholm stoneware). The manufactory was one of the oldest and most revered names in Danish ceramics. It was founded in Rønne on the Baltic island of Bornholm in 1835, and produced ceramics until the factory closed in 1996.
Johansen originally trained as a painter at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen, and that truly shows in his ceramic work as well. This model has a beautiful ceramic body featuring a beautiful glaze in shades of brown and blue, and with a clear artistic touch. The sharp geometric angles of the planes give the forms a sculptural presence, while the rich blue glaze introduces depth and tonal variation across the surface. The lamps reflect the Scandinavian ability to combine bold form with restrained elegance. With its playful design and intriguing glazing technique, the pair provides plenty of visual interest. A balance between softness and structure characterise these table lamps with the structured stone bodies being softened by gentle curves and the pleasant warm light created by the shades, resulting in perfect harmony.
Timeless and expressive, these table lamps function not only as practical sources of light but also as carefully composed decorative objects. Firmly anchored within the golden age of postwar Scandinavian design, Johansen’s works tread a fine line between art and utility through his use of sculptural forms and deep experimentation with glaze chemistry.
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:
12.99 in ø × 14.96 in H
33 cm ø x 38 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
The mid-20th century emerged as a golden era where linear forms seamlessly intertwined with function, giving rise to timeless pieces that continue to captivate contemporary sensibilities. Featuring a minimalist and functional design, with distinctive details and high-quality materials, this floor lamp by Jean Gandelin is a unique addition to any space.
Jean Gandelin became particularly well-known for his use of metal and brass in his designs, as can be seen with this floor lamp. The main decorative element is placed around the functional part, namely the Perspex shade. Although this lamp was created in the middle of the 20th century it is reminiscent of the Art Deco movement, with its use of geometric forms and visual symmetrical balance. This play with geometry and symmetry is evident in the use of round shapes and straight lines. The combination of gold brass and black lacquered metal also further echoes the Art Deco colour palette. Wherever the lamp is placed, it effortlessly enhances the mood with its refined aesthetic. In addition to its visual appeal, this lamp stands as a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of French lighting design during the mid 20th century.
The balance between form and function is executed effortlessly, with the lamp serving as both a practical lighting solution and a beautiful design object. Its understated elegance and mid-century charm make it an ideal addition to any space.
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 some marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
7.87 in ø x 58.07 in H
20 cm ø x 147.5 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
The 20th century emerged as a golden era where linear forms seamlessly intertwined with function, giving rise to timeless pieces that continue to captivate contemporary sensibilities. Featuring a minimalist and functional design, with distinctive details and high-quality materials, this table lamp is a unique addition to any space.
This lamp features a lacquered metal base, which was a popular choice of material in the mid-20th century era. The choice of having brass elements adds an element of elegance and sophistication, giving the lamp a refined look. The Perspex shade, another signature material of the era, provides a practical function by diffusing light evenly, while simultaneously fulfilling an aesthetic role thanks to its elongated shape. By using Perspex, designers could play around with flexibility in form and durability, while still maintaining the transparency and brightness of traditional glass. Furthermore, what makes this model so remarkable is the unique proportions and ability to seamlessly blend into diverse interior settings. To create an attention-grabbing look, the clever design makes it look like the shade is floating above the base when looked at head-on.
This French table lamp is a statement piece that draws the eye despite its relative simplicity. While the three main materials dictate the look, much attention was paid to their quality and to the craftsmanship that united into a modern, unique look.
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. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
10.62 in W x 5.9 in D x 10.82 in H
27 cm W x 15 cm D x 27.5 cm H