Pair of Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen Model "E1296" Table Lamps for ASEA Lighting, Sweden 1950s

















Pair of Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen Model "E1296" Table Lamps for ASEA Lighting, Sweden 1950s
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen was a Danish designer who is best known for his wide collection of lighting fixtures. A licensed ornamental metalworker, Holm-Sørensen started his design career in the 1950s, and many of his designs feature metal surface with different ornaments and perforations. This distinctive model is among his rare early creations. Allmänna Svenska Elektriska Aktiebolaget (in English, the “General Swedish Electrical Limited Company”), ASEA was a Swedish manufacturer of electrical products and industrial infrastructure. While broadly known for the more large-scale parts of the catalogue; e.g., steam turbines for power plants, high-speed locomotives for passenger railroads, etc.—ASEA endures in the hearts of design lovers for their mid-century interior lighting collections produced in collaboration with venerated designers like Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen and Hans Bergström.
These rare ASEA table lamps, model E1296, date back to the 1950s, featuring a cone-shaped base crafted from solid wood and a highly distinctive and artistically formed opaline glass shade secured by a brass cylinder. The overall impression of the design is at the same time futuristic and essentially mid-century modern. This impressive achievement is the result of the materials and their innovative but functional use. This is especially true for the reflector “dancing” with the glass shade. Its white lacquered inside reflects the light, creating a nice effect. The light also highlights the brass cylinders around the neck of the lamps. The large dominating parts are balanced by the sleek elements such as the tubes holding the reflectors, and the conical shapes. During the 20th century, ASEA Belysning had acquired several rival companies, solidifying its position as one of Sweden's premier manufacturers of light fixtures. ASEA's Stockholm drawing office was responsible for the development of numerous modernistic lamps, designed for both public spaces and domestic applications. The company collaborated with numerous renowned designers, including Hans Bergström and Uno Kristiansson, over the years. As the story goes, Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen sketched on everything: envelopes, theatre programmes, even tram tickets. Some sketches remained ideas, but others he brought to life in the form of lamps. Thanks to a combination of imagination, talent and vision, Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen created some of the most distinctive models of the 1950s, including these E1296 table lamps. While the large conical elements will be the first to catch the eye, the materials are just as interesting. The body is composed of teak, brass, and opaline glass, making sure that each material stands out in its own right. The conical construction makes the lamps look light, balancing the thicker teak body. As a licensed ornamental metalworker, Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen possessed an experimental, yet balanced understanding of materials, which is clearly traceable in this model. The dark teak parts are all separated by elements of different materials like the brass and glass; this clever feature highlights each part of this table lamp, making it a well-thought-out, proportionate and artistic model.
The Swedish company, ASEA manufactured these lamps with utmost care for their quality. The company was among the most renowned Swedish lighting manufacturers during the mid-century era, working with some of the most well-known Scandinavian designers. These rare table lamps show the great success of these collaborations.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small marks and scratches.
Dimensions:
5.51 in W x 5.51 in D x 14.96 in H
14 cm W x 14 cm D x 38 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
The manufacturer of this lamp, ASEA, has a rich heritage rooted in lighting innovation, pushing boundaries and redefining norms, playing a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of Swedish lighting design during the 20th century. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship and avant-garde design principles set them apart as pioneers in the industry.
This floor lamp boasts a sleek design, combining a round base, sturdy and durable, with an elongated black lacquered metal stem that gracefully extends upward to support a stunning woven shade. The shade emits a soft, diffused glow, which will enhance the ambiance of any space. The slender stem lends an air of elegance. The brass serves not only a functional purpose, it also allows for a touch of understated luxury with its polished finish. The play of contrast between the dark metal, warm brass, and light fabric evokes the restraint typical of Scandinavian modernism, where atmosphere was achieved through proportion rather than ornament. Moreover, the ability to adjust the position of the shade enhances both the functionality and the sculptural character of the piece, allowing it to adapt to different settings and uses.
Elegant and enduring, this floor lamp demonstrate how Swedish design continues to find beauty in simplicity. It merges function, craftsmanship, and light into a harmonious whole, reaffirming that restraint and refinement can be the most distinct of qualities.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. The shade was possibly replaced by a previous owner. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
12.59 in W x 20.86 in D x 46.06 in H
32 cm W x 53 cm D x 117 cm H