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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: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

Lighting is a huge part of 20th century design, ranging from the warm, low light of a candle to the bright overhead glow of a ceiling light. This GISO ceiling lamp pair is a unique piece of functionalist design with the unmistakeable touches of Art Deco.

What sets this ceiling lamp model apart is its so-called stepped design, reminiscent of a wedding cake or Christmas tree. The term "stepped design" refers to the distinct arrangement of layers or steps that gradually rise, creating a tiered effect. In the context of this model, these steps in the glass shade and the metal canopy produce a visually striking aesthetic. The layered glass creates a subtle play of light and shadow, adding depth and dimension to the ambient illumination it provides. Furthermore, the stepped design on 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. This pair captures the enduring appeal of Dutch modern lighting. The minimal construction also speaks to the era’s industrial design ethos: clarity of lines, quality of material, and an avoidance of unnecessary embellishment.

This model stands as a reminder of how 1960s designers favoured geometry and a focus on ambient light, turning utilitarian objects into refined expressions of postwar modernism. For collectors and connoisseurs alike, this pair of lamps stand as both a nod to history and a beacon of timeless style for contemporary interiors

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. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

6.29 in ø x 7.48 in H

16 cm ø x 19 cm H

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

It is easy to dismiss the 1970s as "the decade that taste forgot" yet to overlook its contributions in architecture, furniture design and interior decorating is also a shortcoming. It was the period of transition from Mid-century modernism into Post-modernism, a bridge that these ceiling lamps visually exemplify.

During the 1970s, European lighting design in particular embraced industrial and geometric influences, using materials such as metal and glass to create minimalist yet visually engaging fixtures. These lights exemplify the movement's emphasis on modern materials and streamlined forms. The lights feature square milk glass shades, which provide soft, ambient illumination. This type of glass ensures the light is diffused gently, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, while the sleek look of the black metal adds a touch of chromatic and textural contrast. The square, boxy shape of the lamps speak to the geometric influence of mid-century modern design, and highlights the uniqueness of the pair. The combination of milk glass and metal ensures that these lights not only serve as striking visual accents, but they maintain their functionality and appeal over time through the durability and timelessness of the materials. Thanks to the compact flush mount design, these lamps can integrate into a variety of interior settings.

These ceiling lights continue to embody the qualities of mid-century modernism that has made it one of the most sought after design movements to this day. The clean lines and understated look further ensure that the pair maintains its relevance and beauty for decades to come.

Condition:

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

Dimensions:

9.64 in W x 9.84 in D x 6.29 in H

24.5 cm W x 25 cm D x 16 cm H

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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

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 designs were born from a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as material.

In the early to mid-20th century, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this pair of model “2025 A” 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, 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. To complement the glass material, the shades feature a bold geometric shape, which is the main visual point of interest. Nickel-plated brass ceiling caps connect the shades to the ceiling, offering the lamps a cool sheen even when unlit. The circular caps balance out the angular shape of the shades. Milk glass was a popular material for lighting fixtures in the mid-20th century, due in part to its ability to soften and diffuse light, as this model demonstrates. Tynell was a master of working with this material, and his milk glass lamps are some of his most sought-after designs.

The 20th century was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as creatives like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. During this time, there was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, leading to more designers creating pieces like this model. Both beautiful and practical, model “2025 A” 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. Imperfections on the glass may be present due to age and manufacturing inconsistencies. Additionally, due to the nature and age of the metal elements, some marks, scratches, and discolouration may be present.

This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

5.90 in W x 5.90 in D x 7.28 in H

15 cm W x 15 cm D x 18.5 cm H

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Arne Jacobsen was one of the leading figures of 20th century Danish design, known for his ability to unify architecture, furniture, and lighting into a cohesive vision. Trained as an architect, his work is defined by clarity of line, disciplined geometry, and a careful balance between function and visual refinement. Rather than treating objects as isolated pieces, Jacobsen saw design as a holistic spatial experience. This philosophy placed him at the forefront of Scandinavian modernism and established him as a lasting influence on both architectural and industrial design worldwide.

The Munkegaard ceiling lamp, designed by Arne Jacobsen for Louis Poulsen in the 1950s, is a clear example of this approach. Originally created for a school in Søborg, Denmark, the design is minimalist, and focused on quality and attention to detail. The fixtures are composed of a stepped, circular structure that appears simple at first, yet anchors the lights to a ceiling or wall elegantly. While the bodies are made of white painted metal, the pieces feature a brass ring near the shade, combining colours to create a timeless model. The brass trim introduces warmth and subtle contrast against the white surface, preventing the design from feeling soulless while maintaining its architectural clarity. The matte, opaque diffusers that sit beneath allow the light to spread evenly throughout a space.

The lamps sit close to the ceiling, making them ideal for rooms where visual lightness and unobtrusive design are important. Their compact form makes them suitable for both residential and professional settings, especially in interiors that value clean looks and functional elegance. These pieces demonstrate how thoughtful construction and material choice can elevate ceiling lamps into a lasting example of modernist design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the items may have marks, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. These lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

20.66 in Ø x 5.31 in H

52.5 cm Ø x 13.5 cm H

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

Arne Jacobsen was one of the leading figures of twentieth century Danish design, known for his ability to unify architecture, furniture, and lighting into a cohesive vision. Trained as an architect, his work is defined by clarity of line, disciplined geometry, and a careful balance between function and visual refinement. Rather than treating objects as isolated pieces, Jacobsen saw design as a holistic spatial experience. This philosophy placed him at the forefront of Scandinavian modernism and established him as a lasting influence on both architectural and industrial design worldwide.

The Munkegaard ceiling lamp, designed by Arne Jacobsen for Louis Poulsen in the 1950s, is a clear example of this approach. Originally created for a school in Søborg, Denmark, the design is minimalist, resting on quality and attention to detail. The fixture is composed of a stepped, circular structure that appears simple at first, yet anchors the light to a ceiling or wall elegantly. While the body is made of white painted metal, the piece features a brass ring near the shade, combining colours to create a timeless model. The brass trim introduces warmth and subtle contrast against the white surface, preventing the design from feeling soulless while maintaining its architectural clarity. The matte, opaque diffuser that sits beneath allows the light to spread evenly throughout a space.

The lamp sits close to the ceiling, making it ideal for rooms where visual lightness and unobtrusive design are important. Its compact form makes it suitable for both residential and professional settings, especially in interiors that value clean looks and functional elegance. This piece demonstrates how thoughtful construction and material choice can elevate a ceiling lamp into a lasting example of modernist design.

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 brass, the item may have some marks, scratches, and 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. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

20.66 in Ø x 5.31 in H

52.5 cm Ø x 13.5 cm H

About the designer:

Arne Jacobsen (1902-1971) was born on February 11, 1902 in Copenhagen. The Jacobsen family lived in a typical Victorian style home. As a contrast to his parents’ overly decorated taste, Arne painted his room white, which was an early sign of his later interests and style. It is said that he literally painted over the Victorian wallpaper in his bedroom

Arne Jacobsen met the Lassen brothers at Nærum Boarding School and later, Flemming Lassen became his partner in a series of architectural projects. Jacobsen was a restless pupil, and already as a child, he showed an extraordinary talent for drawing and depicting nature through scrupulous studies. He initially wanted to become a painter, but his father felt that architecture was a more sensible choice. In 1924, he graduated from The Technical College in Copenhagen and got admitted to the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts.

From the beginning of his career, Jacobsen turned his gaze abroad, without abandoning Danish traditions. Jacobsen’s works reflect his personality: an insistent, perfectionist modernist, to whom no detail was trivial, even though the main picture was basically black and white and unambiguous. At the same time, Jacobsen was a nature-loving botanist and jovial family man: like him, his work is precise and warm, Danish at its core, modern and timeless.

He is remembered for his contribution to architectural Functionalism as well as for the worldwide success he enjoyed with simple but effective chair designs. ~H.

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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur

Paavo Tynell, a leading figure in Finnish design, was known for his innovative work in the field of lighting during the mid-20th century. As a co-founder of the renowned manufacturer Taito, established in the 1930s, Tynell brought a unique sensibility to lighting design, blending modernist forms with traditional Finnish craftsmanship. His work often emphasized natural materials and simple, elegant forms, with an eye toward functionality and beauty.

These particular ceiling lights by Tynell are simple in their form, featuring opal glass shades that provide a soft, diffused light. The glass itself has a smooth, almost frosted appearance that evokes a sense of warmth and subtle sophistication. Each shade is delicately tapered, creating a fluid and graceful silhouette that stands in harmony with the simplicity of the design. The roundness of the glass shades add a natural, fluid element to the lights, while maintaining the minimalist aesthetic Tynell was known for. The shades are anchored by a concealed aluminum ceiling holder, which helps secure the pieces. The flush mount design maintains the light's minimalist quality, ensuring that nothing distracts from the soft illumination and elegant form. These lights are versatile, fitting comfortably into a variety of spaces, whether installed as a group or placed individually. Their simple yet sophisticated look brings a sense of timelessness that complements a variety of spaces.

Paavo Tynell's creative designs played a significant role in defining Taito's reputation for producing some of the most sought-after lighting fixtures of the time. Tynell’s designs remain influential, reflecting the Finnish aesthetic that values both practicality and understated elegance.

Condition:

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

Dimensions:

8.27 in Ø x 10.63 in H

21 cm Ø x 27 cm H

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

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Active between the 1950s and '70s—in the golden age of Scandinavian design—Swedish interior decorator and furniture designer Hans-Agne Jakobsson is best remembered for his softly glowing, glare-free lighting fixtures.

The “Pastoral” series contains Jakobsson’s most celebrated light fixtures, characterised by their brass poles and smoked-glass shades. The design of these "Pastoral 376-3" ceiling lights clearly showcases the Swedish designer’s studies in architecture, with beautiful geometric forms and symmetry dominating the structure. The three shades resemble pressed spheres and hang from the brass pole like fruits, enhancing the organic forms that influenced Jakobsson. The smoked glass shades look equally appealing with the light switched on or off, however when it is on, the brass base truly stands out. Thanks to the arrangement of the bulbs, these lamps divide the light evenly. As evidenced by this model, Jakobsson mastered both the direction and colour of light.

Famed for his imaginative light fixtures, which utilise unique angles and materials to create a soft quality of light, Jakobsson is among the most celebrated Scandinavian lighting designers. His models are timeless, showing how shaping light with the use of materials and colours came naturally to him. These ceiling lamps were created at his own famed workshop, Hans-Agne Jakobsson AB, in Markaryd, Sweden.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Small damage on some glass shades.

Dimensions:

18.89 in W x 18.89 in D x 12.99 in H

48 cm W x 48 cm D x 33 cm H

About the Designer:

Born in 1919 in Gotland, Sweden, Hans Agne Jakobsson is one of the most well-known Swedish lighting designers. He did his carpenter apprenticeship before studying architecture in Gothenburg.

First working as an industrial designer for General Motors, he later founded his own company after being an assistant to the designers Carl Malmsten and Werner West. In 1950, due to Christmas, he added a model of hanging lamps in small strips of pine in one of his stores to soften the lively lighting of the shop window. The people who were passing by were immediately seduced by this hanging lamp, which started it all. He established his own company in 1951: Hans Agne Jakobsson AB and began producing this model in his factories and achieved success abroad as well. In 50 years, he designed more than 2000 lamps with unique designs.

He used materials and experimented with multiple techniques, for example using fabrics with fringes, blown glass of colour and smoked glass. His great diversity resulted in a wide range of timeless lighting models. These pieces continue to seduce design lovers, as they adapt themselves to any interior, without blending into the background.

Today, Jakobsson’s works can be found in private homes as well as public institutions throughout Sweden. The designer passed away in 2009 in Sweden, leaving behind a great legacy.

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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur

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Hans-Agne Jakobsson was a renowned Swedish designer who is known for his exceptional contribution to the field of lighting design. Prolific during the golden age of Scandinavian design, from the 1950s to the 1970s, Jakobsson is known for his streamlined designs’ diffused, muted lighting. He built on the organic style of designers like Alvar Aalto, experimenting with a wide range of materials to create natural forms.

The “T-472” model, nicknamed Globus, is perhaps one of the most distinctive lighting designs of the mid-century era in terms of special decoration. This ceiling light is particularly unique because of the clear glass shade with air bubbles inside. The glass shade was designed to resemble a globe, hence the nickname. The bubbles in the glass create a beautiful visual effect when the light is lit, creating the image of sunlight shining on raindrops. The brass socket further add to this effect, lighting up brightly. The shade casts a soft and warm glow in all directions, further enhanced by the brass frame that hold the shade in place. Hans-Agne Jakobsson was known for his meticulous approach to design, and the Globus is a testament to his dedication to creating high-quality and beautiful lighting fixtures. The clear glass shade was traditionally hand-blown by skilled artisans, ensuring the piece’s uniqueness and the highest quality. While it is unquestionable that the organic shade stands in the focus of the design, the brass frame is just as remarkable. Carefully crafted to ensure a perfect fit and finish, adding to the overall durability and longevity of the ceiling light.

The “T-472” is not just a functional lighting fixture, but also a work of a creative genius. The bubbles are evenly spaced, therefore when the light is turned on, the bubbles create a stunning effect, casting shadows that dance across the walls of the room. This is a truly one-of-a-kind look that cannot be found in any other lighting design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition consistent with age and use. The brass part has some weather marks and beautiful patina.

Dimensions:

10.23 in Ø x 13.77 in H

26 cm Ø x 35 cm H

About the Designer:

Born in 1919 in Gotland, Sweden, Hans Agne Jakobsson is one of the most well-known Swedish lighting designers. He did his carpenter apprenticeship before studying architecture in Gothenburg.

First working as an industrial designer for General Motors, he later founded his own company after being an assistant to the designers Carl Malmsten and Werner West. In 1950, due to Christmas, he added a model of hanging lamps in small strips of pine in one of his stores to soften the lively lighting of the shop window. The people who were passing by were immediately seduced by this hanging lamp, which started it all. He established his own company in 1951: Hans Agne Jakobsson AB and began producing this model in his factories and achieved success abroad as well. In 50 years, he designed more than 2000 lamps with unique designs.

He used materials and experimented with multiple techniques, for example using fabrics with fringes, blown glass of colour and smoked glass. His great diversity resulted in a wide range of timeless lighting models. These pieces continue to seduce design lovers, as they adapt themselves to any interior, without blending into the background.

Today, Jakobsson’s works can be found in private homes as well as public institutions throughout Sweden. The designer passed away in 2009 in Sweden, leaving behind a great legacy. ~H.

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REQUEST PRICE HERE

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

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Hans-Agne Jakobsson was a renowned Swedish designer who is known for his exceptional contribution to the field of lighting design. Prolific during the golden age of Scandinavian design, from the 1950s to the 1970s, Jakobsson is known for his streamlined designs’ diffused, muted lighting. He built on the organic style of designers like Alvar Aalto, experimenting with a wide range of materials to create natural forms.

The “T-472” model, nicknamed Globus, is perhaps one of the most distinctive lighting designs of the mid-century era in terms of special decoration. These ceiling lights are particularly unique because of their clear glass shades with air bubbles inside of them. The glass shades are designed to resemble a globe, hence the name nickname. The bubbles in the glass create a beautiful visual effect when the light is lit, comparable to the image of sunlight shining on raindrops. The brass sockets further add to this effect, lighting up brightly. The shades cast a soft and warm glow in all directions, further enhanced by the brass frames that hold the glass shades in place. Hans-Agne Jakobsson was known for his meticulous approach to design, and the Globus is a testament to his dedication to creating high-quality and beautiful lighting fixtures. The clear glass shades were traditionally hand-blown by skilled artisans, ensuring that each piece’s uniqueness and the highest quality. While it is unquestionable that the organic shades stand in the focus of the design, the brass frames are just as remarkable. They are carefully crafted to ensure a perfect fit and finish, adding to the overall durability and longevity of these ceiling lights.

The “T-472” is not just a functional lighting fixture, but also a work of a creative genius. The bubbles are evenly spaced, therefore when the light is turned on, the bubbles create a stunning effect, casting shadows that dance across the walls of the room. This is a truly one-of-a-kind look that cannot be found in any other lighting design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition consistent with age and use. The brass parts have some weather marks and beautiful patina.

Dimensions:

10.23 in Ø x 13.77 in H

26 cm Ø x 35 cm H

About the Designer:

Born in 1919 in Gotland, Sweden, Hans Agne Jakobsson is one of the most well-known Swedish lighting designers. He did his carpenter apprenticeship before studying architecture in Gothenburg.

First working as an industrial designer for General Motors, he later founded his own company after being an assistant to the designers Carl Malmsten and Werner West. In 1950, due to Christmas, he added a model of hanging lamps in small strips of pine in one of his stores to soften the lively lighting of the shop window. The people who were passing by were immediately seduced by this hanging lamp, which started it all. He established his own company in 1951: Hans Agne Jakobsson AB and began producing this model in his factories and achieved success abroad as well. In 50 years, he designed more than 2000 lamps with unique designs.

He used materials and experimented with multiple techniques, for example using fabrics with fringes, blown glass of colour and smoked glass. His great diversity resulted in a wide range of timeless lighting models. These pieces continue to seduce design lovers, as they adapt themselves to any interior, without blending into the background.

Today, Jakobsson’s works can be found in private homes as well as public institutions throughout Sweden. The designer passed away in 2009 in Sweden, leaving behind a great legacy. ~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 designs were inspired by a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as material. With an outstanding sense of proportions and balance of shape and form, this model showcases the masterful work of the designers at Taito during the 20th century.

Tynell’s designs in the ceiling lamp series that these lamps belong to merge together simple shapes and sculptural elements. In the 1930s through the 1950s, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this pair of milk glass ceiling lamps with the model number “2040”. These lamps embody the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised Finnish lighting design of the mid-century period. Still, 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 decorative home accents. These lamps have an eye-catching bucket shape that has a strong presence sticking out - quite literally. Still, the edges are just as soft as the light these lamps emit. Thanks to the concealed aluminium ceiling holder, these lamps 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 designers like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. Taito Oy grew to become a trendsetter for the Finnish lighting industry, and eventually to have a worldwide influence on international design. With their ideas in mind, there was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, as designers sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical. Tynell's present lamps embody these qualities perfectly, with clean lines, and a peculiar, but functional design.

Condition:

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

Dimensions:

9.84 in Ø x 9.84 in H

25 cm Ø x 25 cm H

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 40s where he collaborated with some of the most renowned Finnish architects, Alvar Aalto being the most notable one. 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.