Pair of Brass and Opal Glass Wall Lamps by Gino Sarfatti for Arteluce, Italy 1950s


































Pair of Brass and Opal Glass Wall Lamps by Gino Sarfatti for Arteluce, Italy 1950s
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
In postwar Italy, lighting design became a vital field of experimentation, uniting art, technology, and craft. Designers like Gino Sarfatti helped define a new language that embraced precision and artistic restraint. His work replaced excessive ornament with geometry, using simple forms and refined materials to reveal how illumination could shape a space.
This pair of wall lamps manufactured at Arteluce in the 1950s, captures that sensibility with characteristic elegance. Each lamp features a subtly flared opal glass shade mounted on a brass fitting, creating a delicate dialogue between the opaque shade and the dark metal. The glass diffuses the light into a gentle, ambient glow that softens its surroundings. The combination of opal glass and brass reflects the mid-century era’s preference for these materials, but the painted metal sets this piece apart. The brass base provides a tonal contrast to the light shades, as well as safely securing the model to the wall. The proportions are meticulously balanced, allowing the curved shades to appear weightless against when looked at straight on. Though understated, every element demonstrates Sarfatti’s mastery of form and proportion, where technical precision and visual grace coexist seamlessly. The lamps embody the modern Italian pursuit of beauty, an aesthetic guided not by excess, but by the harmony between light, material, and function.
Together, the pair radiates a quiet sophistication that stays true to 1950s Italian design. Their timeless appeal lies in their simplicity and modernism’s ability to balance innovation with emotion, craftsmanship and clarity.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections may be present on the glass due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age of the items.
Dimensions:
4.72 in W x 4.33 in D x 8.46 in H
12 cm W x 11 cm D x 21.5 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
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This stunning 1940s ceiling lamp pair was designed by Gunnel Nyman and produced by the esteemed company, Idman Oy. Established at the end of the 19th century in Finland, Idman Oy was renowned for its exceptional metalwork and craftsmanship, gained a reputation for producing high-quality furniture and lighting pieces that embodied the principles of functionality and aesthetic simplicity. These Model “81003” lamps are a shining example of their dedication to these values that still stand strong today.
Suspended from slender, elegant nickel-plated brass rods and finished with minimalist metal caps, the rounded shades float gracefully. The pendant lamps feature opal or milk glass, perfect for diffusing the light in an elegant manner. The glow enhances the surrounding space without harshness, embodying the designer’s belief in lighting as an integral architectural element rather than a mere accessory. The refined simplicity of the form allows the quality of the materials and the purity of the design to shine. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, showcasing a masterful sense of balance and proportion. With their timeless shape, these lamps have maintained their appeal over decades, blending perfectly into various interior styles, from mid-century modern to contemporary spaces. In the 1940s, Idman played a pivotal role in shaping the Finnish design landscape. The company developed an impressive portfolio of iconic pieces that continue to be cherished today.
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. 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 lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the lamps may have minor marks, scratches, 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:
Lamp 1:
9.84 in ø × 32.68 in H
25 cm ø x 83 cm H
Lamp 2:
9.84 in ø × 26.77 in H
25 cm ø x 68 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: 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: 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: 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
This Italian wall lamp is very compelling, it is stylish, whimsy, but it is also material and craft bound. Like their international counterparts, mid-century Italian designers prized the marriage of form and function, and the result was an immediately recognizable look.
This “Olivia” lamp is handcrafted in gilded wrought iron, it featues a botanical form with an elegant composition of leaves and branches. A frosted glass shade is seamlessly integrated within the organic frame, creating a harmonious balance between decorative form and functional illumination. Studio Banci became renowned for elevating traditional Florentine metalworking techniques into modern lighting, and the “Olivia” model beautifully embodies this approach. Richly textured surfaces, hand-finished gilding, and delicately forged details showcase the exceptional skill of the manufacturer, while the sculptural silhouette reflects the glamour associated with Italian design of the period. Whether illuminated or not, this wall lamp also functions as a wall sculpture, casting a warm ambient glow that accentuates its intricate floral motif.
Today, the “Olivia” wall lamp is highly sought after for its timeless elegance and versatility. Its distinctive combination of organic ornamentation and restrained modernism complements interiors ranging from Mid-Century Modern and Hollywood Regency to contemporary spaces seeking a touch of vintage charm. It represents both an exceptional lighting piece and a lasting work of decorative art.
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 lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.
Dimensions:
17.7 in W × 8.7 in D × 20.5 in H
45 cm W x 22 cm D x 52 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 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 shades 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 pair of wall lights bridges architectural precision with decorative warmth. Whether installed individually or as a pair, 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 item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies. The lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting.
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: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Hans-Agne Jakobsson was one of the central figures of Swedish lighting design during the post-war decades. After training as both a carpenter and architect, he founded his own company in Markaryd in 1951, where he developed lighting that softened the harsher qualities of electric illumination through beautiful shades, natural materials, and restrained forms.
Jakobsson designed this pair of wall lamps in the mid-20th century. It was a revolutionary period in design throughout Scandinavia, where function and form merged in the most intriguing ways. The designer prized the marriage of form and function, with a poise that is hard to imitate or force. The shape and materials of the shades set the overall aesthetic of these lamps. The opaque glass is made into a bulbous form with a that narrows towards the bottom, held securely by the brass shade holders. The holders feel airy, slender, and minimal, allowing the focus to be on the shades and the light they emit. The brass construction also creates a rich, warm glow, enhancing the light while exuding a sense of effortless sophistication. The mid-20th century was defined by leading Swedish designers’ sleek and innovative modernist creations, and Jakobsson’s prowess is evident here as these lamps can both stand out or blend into a room, depending on the interior style.
Sconces are a timeless type of lighting fixture that can easily elevate their surroundings. These fixtures never go out of style and have been in use for centuries for good reason. This model is reflective of a time when creativity knew no bounds, and designers were free to explore new horizons in crafting captivating lighting fixtures.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. These lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Minor marks and scratches are present. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have 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.
Dimensions:
5.9 in W x 8.85 in D x 9.05 in H
15 cm W x 22.5 cm D x 23 cm H