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

Carl Auböck II was born in Vienna, Austria in 1900. After finishing the School of Graphic Design and the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna, he attended the Bauhaus and joined a small group of artists in becoming the founding members of the now legendary school.

This pair of “Vice Versa” floor lamps reflects a fascination with sculptural simplicity and materials, while representing a unique piece of design history. The model, first thought to be created by Auböck 1952, has caused a debate within the design world decades after it was first issued. Within Denmark, the “Vice Versa” lamp was widely sold under the label of Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen, a key figure of Scandinavian design. The controversy still surrounds the model today, however what is undisputed is its beauty. Each lamp is composed of a slender black lacquered metal stem rising from a circular weighted base, creating a simple vertical silhouette. At the top sits the defining feature: a shade placed on a round metal holder. The shade can be reversed and re-positioned, allowing the direction and character of the light to shift depending on its placement. This element reflects Bauhaus functionality principles while still feeling elegant. Despite the minimal construction, the lamps have a strong sculptural presence, particularly through the balance between the thin stem and the oversized curved reflector that mirrors the conical base and ties in the design.

In 1925, Karl Heinrich Auböck passed away at the age of 53, leaving Carl II and the sculptor Mara Uckunowa, Carl’s wife, to take over operations of the Werkstätte at 23 Bernardgasse. In 1954 Carl Auböck II was awarded four gold medals at the Milan Triennale for designing a range of metalware, and pieces like this pair of lamps stand as proof of his genius.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been reconditioned and rewired. The shades are a later replacement and can be positioned in two different ways. Due to the nature of and age of the material, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. We recommend using LED bulbs. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

10.04 in ⌀ x 58.46 in H

25.5 cm ⌀ x 148.5 cm H