‎Design wise the 1970s may conjure images of wood surfaces, plush sofas, warm bright shades, and patterned wallpapers. In Finland, it was also an era of streamlined lighting design, with sculptural appearances, geometric shapes, and shiny details. Finnish designers broke the mould of highly ornate and decorative designs in favour of sleek and elegant pieces, as this pair of lamps showcases.

Like most late mid-century Finnish lighting designs, these models are dominated by their brass structure. The popularity of brass can be attributed to its golden hue that added warmth to the style's modern aesthetic. These wall sconces further emulate the mid-century modern movement's guiding principles through their clean lines and geometric shape. The structure is composed of a back-plate and two small poles holding the brass body. The main point of visual interest is the pair’s rounded design. The term “louvered” refers to the arrangement of slats or layers in a parallel fashion, constituting a series of openings. In the context of these lights, the louvered shades not only diffuse light in a captivating manner, but also imbue the fixtures with a distinct geometric elegance. The play of light through the precisely spaced louvers creates a mesmerising interplay of shadows, adding depth and sophistication to its surroundings. Although not much is known about Kai Ruokonen, it is evidenced by this unique pair that he was an expert designer who paid great attention to detail. 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. This is especially true for mid-century brass models like this.

The warm elegance and the “form follows function” ethos inherent in Finnish design is upheld, as well as high-quality craftsmanship. This pair becomes more and more charming with each moment spent on discovering its features, making them ideal accent pieces.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.

Dimensions:

5.51 in W x 7.67 in D x 10.23 in H

14 cm W x 19.5 cm D x 26 cm H