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

Eileen Gray was a significant designer and architect born in 1878 in Brownswood, Ireland. While in Paris, in the 1920s, Gray opened her own stores to sell her furniture pieces - and just a few years later, designed and built the iconic “E-1027” Modernist villa in the south of France along with frequent collaborator Jean Badovici. Whilst her earlier works were mostly figurative, she eventually became a proponent of Modernity, inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship and the geometric Dutch art movement known as De Stijl. Gray is best known for her revolutionary and innovative designs, such as this ‘Mermaid’ table lamp, embodying her timelessly elegant craftsmanship.

The ‘Mermaid’ table lamp has a sense of character and individuality, meticulously crafted to showcase the very best of Gray’s design style. Although this lamp was created in the middle of the 20th century it is reminiscent of the Art Deco movement, with its use of geometric forms and visual symmetrical balance. This play with geometry and symmetry is evident in the use of round shapes and straight lines. The combination of gold and black sheet metal also further echoes the Art Deco colour palette, with the acrylic shade joining the top and the base of the lamp seamlessly, balancing out the different elements and creating a harmonious composition. As highlighted by the name of this model, the lamp’s body features an eye-catching figure of a gilded metal mermaid, adding to the overall elegance of the piece. The symbolism behind the depiction of mermaids often communicates desire and defying limitations, like Gray who revolutionised design practices. With its distinct composition and soft glow, this lamp is a unique addition that transforms any room into a welcoming and cosy space.

Today, Gray’s designs can be found at the V&A in London, and in the permanent design collection of The Museum of Modern Art in New York. She was also given the title of Royal Designer for Industry in 1972 by The Royal Society of Arts.

Condition:

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

Dimensions:

14.96 in Ø x 19.29 in H

38 cm Ø x 49 cm H