Pair of Table Lamps by Lisa Johansson-Pape for ASEA, Sweden 1950s
Pair of Table Lamps by Lisa Johansson-Pape for ASEA, Sweden 1950s
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Finnish designer Carin Lisa Johansson-Pape was a pioneering figure of the mid-20th century lighting design landscape. Johansson-Pape once said, "A lamp is not the actual purpose, but more like an instrument. It must fulfill its purpose as a provider of light, but at the same time it must also satisfy the aesthetic demands. A good light fixture must be simple, and its structure and function must be both neat and correct." This pair of table lamps is a perfect example of this sentiment.
The simple but effective design is in service of functionality and the idea of “good design.” Like most Nordic and Scandinavian light fixtures of the era, the design assumes a minimalist look that relies on its materials and illuminates the space with direct light from the bulbs. Each element of this model has a distinctive feature that makes it interesting from every aspect. The shades feature a unique shape and, when turned on, the warm light brightens the opal glass, creating a cosy impression. The rounded lacquered metal bases are thick and provide a lovely visual balance. The bases serve not only a functional purpose, providing a strong foundation for the design, but together with the other details at the neck of the lamps, they allow for a touch of understated luxury with their lacquered finish. This interplay of materials and forms highlights the expert design approach of ASEA and the mid-century pursuit of blending practicality with visual appeal.
The Swedish company ASEA has been around since the early 1900s. They are known for producing high-quality lighting fixtures for residential and commercial spaces, often collaborating with leading architects and designers such as Lisa Johansson-Pape and Sven Aage Holm Sorensen to ensure cutting-edge, highly coveted lighting solutions. Featuring a minimalist and functional design, distinctive details, and high-quality materials, this table lamp pair is a rare find from the company’s archives.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
7.87 in Ø x 19.68 in H
20 cm Ø x 50 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
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