Art Deco Bakelite Futurit 202 Desk Lamp, 1930s

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Description

This legendary and rare Bakelite desk lamp, also known as the Futurit 202 model, was designed by the British designer … Read more This legendary and rare Bakelite desk lamp, also known as the Futurit 202 model, was designed by the British designer Eric Kirkham Cole. with its refined and technically sophisticated form, it became one of the most recognisable Bakelite pieces of the Art Deco period. The lamp is cast entirely from dark brown-black Bakelite and features a pivoting arm and an adjustable shade that allow precise light direction—perfect for a desk or bedside table. It is also preserved with its original Bakelite switch.

The lamp carries a long history, which further highlights its popularity. It was first known as Plastalite and developed within the EKCO company, founded by Cole in 1924 and famous for its pioneering radio and television sets. Their production soon expanded to other Bakelite items, including table lamps manufactured under licence in Germany and the Eastern Bloc. The Futurit 202 model presented here was produced from 1932 onwards at the Gummon factory in Bratislava, where they used Futurit, an improved Bakelite mixture from the Bakelite Gesellschaft in Berlin. Due to their popularity, these lamps continued to be produced into the 1950s. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution,
European Plug (up to 250V).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less