Stepped Opal Glass Flush Mount by Taito, Finland Mid-20th Century (sold)


































Stepped Opal Glass Flush Mount by Taito, Finland Mid-20th Century (sold)
Paavo Tynell founded Taito in 1918, which became the Finnish lighting industry trendsetter during the interwar period. This ceiling lamp stands as a testament to timeless design, seamlessly merging the elegance of the Art Deco period with the refined minimalism of mid-century modernism. Its unique appearance captures attention, showcasing a layered glass shade that exudes innovative sophistication.
What makes this lamp special is its so-called stepped design, reminiscent of a wedding cake. The term "stepped design" refers to the distinct arrangement of layers or steps that gradually rise, creating a tiered effect. The layered glass creates a subtle play of light and shadow, adding depth and dimension to the ambient illumination it provides. The stepped design of lamps serves a dual purpose: firstly, it adds a touch of architectural interest, turning a functional object into a sculptural element in the room. The gradual rise of layers not only contributes to the lamp's visual appeal but also imparts a sense of balance and proportion. Secondly, the stepped arrangement serves to diffuse and distribute light more effectively. The varying levels of the opal glass shade break up the light, preventing harsh glare and create a softer, more welcoming atmosphere. This lamp embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterized Finnish design in the mid-20th century. Still, even in the absence of heavy ornamentation, there was always an emphasis on interesting materials. The design of this lamp is quite succinct, with clear lines and precision obvious even in the smallest details. Aided by a light colour tint, the glass shade has a warm and bright look when lit. Opal glass was a popular material for lighting fixtures in the mid-century era, due in part to its ability to soften light. As this lamp demonstrates, it was also prized for its lustrous, opaque finish, which gives lamps like this a sophisticated and refined look.
Designers at Taito were masters of subtle, dimmed lighting with outstanding sense of proportions and balance. Finnish designers of the era 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 they sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
13.19 in Ø x 8.85 in H
33.5 cm Ø x 22.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 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. 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 shorn of subtle decorative elements. This brass and opal wall lamp represents an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models.
This wall lamp utilises the mid-century era’s popular combination of brass and glass; the elongated bell shaped shades create a play of shadows and show off the frosted glass when its two light points are lit. The pairing of the bell shaped shades and long stems create a tulip-like silhouette. Accentuating these shapes is the polished brass that features a nice patina. Overall, the composition of the “tulips” and clever decorative elements give this wall lamp a personality that isn’t loud but still stands out, which is an essential Finnish design virtue. The refined and unique work of Finnish lighting designers has made their creations increasingly valued by collectors in the know.
Finnish mid-century design is celebrated for its minimalist sophistication, organic feel, and impeccable attention to detail. These characteristics are perfectly captured in this wall lamp, making it a wonderful addition to an array of interiors.
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 marks, scratches, and discolouration. Minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.
Dimensions:
9.45 in W × 4.53 in D × 22.05 in H
24 cm W x 11.5 cm D x 56 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: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Gunnel Nyman (19 September 1909 – 7 October 1948) was a Finnish glass and metal artist, and one of the founders of modern Finnish glass design. She was also an advocate of early mass-produced glassware. Nyman's glassware is exhibited internationally in museums.
This “80115” ceiling lamp embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised Finnish design in the 1950s. Even in the absence of ornamentation, there was always an emphasis on interesting materials. Milk glass, appropriately named for its opaque or transparent pure 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 for home accents to decorate households. This lamp has an eye-catching blunted cone shape, with the edges just as soft as the light it diffuses. Thanks to the concealed ceiling holder, the lamp is flush mounted without any exposed parts other than the glass shade. Nyman considered material an essential factor in design, to the point that - in her opinion - each object had only one material that it could be made from. Form, proportion and decoration were only there to enhance the properties inherent in the material. The Finnish design blueprint that was set during the first few decades of the 1900s is based on characteristics that can be traced in this lamp model: functionality, an understated, unornamented design created from high quality materials - and most importantly, by a skilled craftsperson.
Although Gunnel Nyman’s career was cut short by an untimely death, she had time enough to give a new direction to Finnish glass design. Her work foreshadowed the work of the 1950s and 1960s Finnish glass designers. At the Milan Triennial in 1951, Nyman was awarded gold medal for glass posthumously.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The ceiling lamp has recently been reconditioned. There are minor dents and scratches in the metal. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamp may have marks, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
9.84 in ø x 8.66 in H
25 cm ø x 22 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
The most famous Finnish industrial designer, Paavo Tynell, came to be known as the “man who illuminated Finland” thanks to his notable lighting designs. A master craftsman himself, Tynell’s models were of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as materials.
In the 20th century, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including these model “2028” milk glass ceiling lamps. This pair embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised early 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 pure ivory white tone, was first created in Venice in the 16th century, it was known as Lattimo. At that time, the material was widely used for decorative purposes and continued to be popular during the 20th century when it was used as home accents to decorate households. Milk glass was an extremely popular material for lighting fixtures in the 1950s, due in part to its ability to soften and diffuse light, as this pair demonstrates. To complement the glass, nickel-plated brass mounts attach the shades to the ceiling, offering the lamps a cool tone even when unlit. This model has a gentle, round shape that is just as soft as the light it diffuses. Tynell was a master of working with this material combination, and his milk glass ceiling lamps are some of his most sought-after designs to this day.
The 20th century was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as designers 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, as many 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 been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additionally, minor imperfections may be present on the glass due to manufacturing inconsistencies. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
11.81 in Ø x 8.66 in H
30 cm Ø x 22 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: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Finnish lighting design. As a co-founder and chief designer of Taito Oy, he helped establish a distinctly Finnish approach to lighting that combined masterful metalwork with an organic sense of form. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, his designs drew inspiration from nature while remaining deeply rooted in functionality.
Tynell’s model “9414” wall lamp reflects this philosophy through its graceful lines, adjustable construction, and thoughtful use of natural materials. Rather than relying on symmetry, the lamp unfolds through a series of elegant bends that give the brass arm a distinct visual quality. Extending confidently from the wall, the articulated arm allows the light to be positioned with flexibility while creating a striking linear composition. Suspended from the brass arm is a tapered rattan shade, the warm texture contrasts beautifully with the polished brass structure. The small wooden slats gently filter the light, producing a soft, atmospheric glow that enhances the comforting character of the design. Every transition between horizontal and vertical lines feels effortless, revealing Tynell's remarkable ability to transform a functional mechanism into something sculptural.
The best qualities of Tynell's lamp designs are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design. At the same time, the subtle ornamentation and clever use of materials are always present. Model “9414” functions equally well as a reading lamp, bedside light, or decorative wall fixture, adapting easily to a variety of interiors through its adjustable construction.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade was custom-made by our in-house atelier. Due to the nature and age 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:
15.35 in W × 18.70 in D × 12.40 in H
39 cm W x 47.5 cm D x 31.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
“The man who illuminated Finland”, Paavo Tynell is one of the best-known Finnish lighting designers, and his work has had a great influence on modern lighting design in Finland, and internationally.
The best qualities of Tynell's light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design, exemplified by these three model “2008” ceiling lamps. The design of this model is dominated by the opal glass shades supported by the nickel plated brass stems. Tynell’s design merges together a simple and decorative shape with sculptural elements. These lamps have great proportions, the large shades are balanced by the backplates to create the attention-grabbing look. When lit, they create an exceptionally atmospheric light, giving the nickel plated brass a vivid colour as well. Tynell’s designs are marked by a delicacy and softness that reveals his background in fine jewellery, and his most famous forms in lighting echo the structures of nature. Model “2008” is a modernist design to its core with a look that is timeless and can stand out and complement any space.
Idman Oy was started as early as 1897 by Karl Hjalmar Idman. In 1953, Idman Oy, acquired the majority of shares in Taito Oy, the company of Paavo Tynell. Paavo Tynell continued to work for the company on a freelance basis, through his own design firm. In his day, Paavo Tynell’s atmospheric light fixtures attracted attention as far away as the United States.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The metal has some marks and staining. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have additional marks, scratches, and discolouration. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
8.27 in ∅ x 9.06 in D
21 cm ∅ x 23 cm D
Literature:
Idman Lighting Catalogue 140 – 1950s – Around 1956. p. 26.
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 1940s, during which period he collaborated with some of the most renowned Finnish architects, including Alvar Aalto. Working to incorporate artificial lighting into modern environments, Tynell’s company, Taito Oy produced fixtures for all of Alvar Aalto’s major projects including the Paimio Sanatorium and the Viipuri Library.
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.
A master craftsman himself, Tynell’s designs were derivative of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of perforated and polished brass as material. 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
The most famous Finnish industrial designer, Paavo Tynell came to be known as the “man who illuminated Finland” thanks to his notable lighting designs. A master craftsman, Tynell’s designs were born from a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as material. As co-founder and chief designer of Taito Oy, he developed fixtures that combined technical precision with an understated elegance, favouring balanced proportions and softly diffused illumination.
Before his retirement in 1953, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this milk glass ceiling lamp with the model number “2034”. The piece demonstrates this restrained approach with exceptional clarity. The fixture appears effortless: a gently rounded opaline glass shade is suspended beneath a discreet metal mount, creating a composition defined by pure geometry and grace. The softly tapering profile of the glass lends the lamp a sculptural presence, while its glossy surface reflects ambient light even when unlit. When illuminated, the opaline diffuser transforms into a glowing bulb, dispersing light evenly and eliminating harsh shadows. The exposed metal fitting provides a subtle visual anchor above the glass, introducing just enough contrast without disturbing the calm harmony of the design.
Although modest, model “2034” possesses an enduring architectural presence. Every element has been reduced to its essential form, allowing proportion, material, and light itself to become the defining decorative features.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some 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:
9.84 in ø x 12 in H
25 cm ø x 30.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Finnish mid-century lighting design is world-famous for numerous reasons. The country’s designers managed to make strictly functional design look beautiful in addition to their practicality and high-quality. This Valinte Oy model “2322” wall lamp is a commendable example of the Finnish design sensibilities.
Valinte Oy, established in Finland during a time of great design exploration, was known for its commitment to crafting distinctive lighting solutions. The company was celebrated for its attention to detail and ability to merge form and function seamlessly. Valinte Oy's designs have always embodied the spirit of Finnish craftsmanship and have often incorporated elements of nature, evoking a sense of purity and simplicity. This wall lamp features a dynamic brass body that extends outward to hold a stunning woven dome shade. The shape of the brass stem is reminiscent of Paavo Tynell’s model “9414” wall lamp, thus highlighting the Finnish design trends of the period. The shape of the shade and pairing of materials create the overall aesthetic impression of this lamp. Since the two materials - brass and woven fabric - dictate the look, much attention was paid to the quality and to the craftsmanship that united the lamp into its particular shape. The prowess of the producer becomes evident as this wall lamp represents a statement piece despite its minimalism. Furthermore, the design has great proportions, and when lit, the lamp creates an exceptionally atmospheric light, giving the brass a warm colour as well.
This lamp is a timeless example of how simplicity, combined with thoughtful craftsmanship, can result in lighting fixtures that transcend their utilitarian purpose, becoming works of art in their own right. Today we consider the mid-century era a golden age for Finnish design and craftsmanship. During these decades, some of the country's most significant luminaires were made, including this exceptional wall sconce.
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 marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.75 in W x 38.58 in D x 20.08 in H
40 cm W x 98 cm D x 51 cm H
Shade
15.75 in ∅
40 cm ∅
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Finnish designer, Lisa Johansson-Pape, was among the most significant lighting designers in the second half of the 1900s. Working for the Stockmann owned manufacturer, Orno, she developed a design language rooted in functionality, simplicity, and the careful shaping of light. Johansson-Pape believed that a lamp should create a pleasant atmosphere, allowing form and decoration to support rather than overshadow its purpose.
This pair of model “1116” ceiling lights combines opal glass and brass to create an iconic Finnish modern look. The fixtures are composed around broad, gently tapering shades whose softly curved profiles create an elegant silhouette against the ceiling. The opal glass diffuses light evenly across the entire surface, concealing the light source while producing a warm and comfortable glow. A discreet brass cap completes the shades, introducing a subtle decorative accent and a welcome contrast to the smooth, luminous glass. The transition between materials allows the brass to complement rather than dominate the composition. When illuminated, the shades appear almost weightless, floating beneath the ceiling while softly radiating light throughout the room. Their restrained geometry and balanced proportions embody the calm sophistication that characterises the best examples of Finnish mid-century design.
While Lisa Johansson-Pape was also active as a furniture designer, her lighting models brought her world-wide fame. Her work was presented in New York’s World Fair of 1939 and the Milan Triennial IX, where she won an award in 1951, and model “1116” is a clear example of her artistry.
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 lamps may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. These ceiling lights are compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.75 in ø x 7.09 in H
40 cm ø x 18 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This table lamp is a masterful display of modern Scandinavian design’s sensibility and craftsmanship. Crafted in the mid-20th century, it captures the elegant interplay of form and function that defined Finnish lighting design of the era. The lamp showcases the masterful mix of traditional materials and skill that sets its era’s craftsmanship apart.
The lamp’s defining feature is its distinctive brass structure. The brass has a warm, polished finish that reflects light beautifully, adding a touch of sophistication to any space. The lamp’s unique look is solidified by the striking custom made shade, which is carefully composed of thin wooden strips arranged in a rhythmic, vertical pattern. This natural material creates a beautiful effect, allowing the light to diffuse when the lamp is lit, creating an inviting atmosphere. The shade’s organic texture contrasts beautifully with the sleek brass frame, highlighting the Nordic appreciation for natural materials and honest construction. The round brass base anchors the piece, providing both stability and a refined, minimal foundation.
Whether used as a statement piece on a side table or as an accent on a console, this Finnish table lamp offers both sculptural beauty and practical illumination. It embodies the spirit of Nordic design through its balanced use of metal and wood, meticulous detailing, and a form that feels timeless and distinctly modern.
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. Some minor marks and scratches on the brass. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
9.45 in ø x 14.96 in H
24 cm ø x 38 cm H