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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

This rare model is by Swedish designer and sculptor, Harald Notini. He was the artistic leader at Böhlmarks and is represented at the ‘Nationalmuseum’ in Stockholm.

Between the 1920s and 1950s, Böhlmarks was a significant player in the Swedish design movement. Notini drove the company forward, producing what were considered pioneering and distinctive luminaires for the time. With an unmistakeable design, this model ‘8589’ wall sconce belongs to a historic collection of luminaires from a golden era. Like most light fixtures of the period, the design of this wall lamp assumes a more minimalist look, yet is coupled with subtle decorative elements that adds to the uniqueness of the piece.

Notini prized the marriage of form and function, with a poise that is hard to imitate or force. The shape of the shades and pairing of materials create the overall aesthetic impression of this lamp, introducing modernism to a classic style of a two-armed wall lamp. The frosted glass is shaped into a characteristic form, with a spherical body narrowing towards the top, held tightly by the decorative brass shade holders. The design is very successful in mixing the traditional and modern elements, while staying true to the guiding principles of modernism. Since the two materials - brass and frosted glass - 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 designer becomes evident as this wall lamp stands as 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. Wall lamps such as this are 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 Swedish design and craftsmanship. During these decades, some of the country's most significant luminaires were designed and produced at Böhlmarks, including this exceptionally rare wall sconce.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor chips on the glass shades.

Dimensions:

13.18 in W x 7.67 in D x 21.25 in H

33.5 cm W x 19.5 cm D x 54 cm H

About the designer:

Harald Elof Notini (1879-1959), son of the sculptor Axel Notini, was a trained sculptor and interior designer who studied in his early years at the 'Högre konstindustriella skolan' - now known as Konstfack. Notini worked at Böhlmarks throughout his active career and came to play a significant role in lighting design in Sweden during the first half of the 20th century.

Notini joined Böhlmarks in 1916 and was hired as artistic director, leading Böhlmarks in a modern and innovative direction that would particularly characterize the company's range of luminaires and glass. Notini drove the company forward, producing what were considered pioneering and distinctive luminaires for the time. His expression ranged from the most ornate Swedish Grace of the 1920s and strictly functionalist luminaires, presented at the 1930 Stockholm Exhibition - to the now highly regarded Swedish Modern aesthetic of the 1940s and 1950s.

Harald remained faithful to his company for the rest of his life; at the age of 79 (1958), he still had his office and a wide range of duties. A commemorative publication of Böhlmark's 75th anniversary, published in 1947, notes that Notini was active as an artistic director with a continuing significant role in the design of luminaires and household glass. Given Böhlmark's extensive product catalogues, Notini must have had a drawing office with several designers employed. ~H