Details
Description
Designed in the 1960s by Slovakian industrial designer Jan Suchan, this Bakelite table lamp—type 102 01, affectionately known as the …
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Designed in the 1960s by Slovakian industrial designer Jan Suchan, this Bakelite table lamp—type 102 01, affectionately known as the “Commissar” is one of the most recognisable lights of its era. Produced by Elektrosvit Nové Zámky, it became a ubiquitous presence across Czechoslovakia: found illuminating police desks in films, perched in architecture studios, and quietly at work in countless households.
Its enduring appeal lies in the clarity of its industrial logic. The lamp’s clamp-on base anchors it securely to the edge of a desk, giving it excellent stability while preserving precious workspace. The articulated arm and directional shade allow the light to be positioned with remarkable precision - ideal for drawing, reading, or focused evening work.
The exterior of the shade is moulded in deep black Bakelite, while the inside reveals a contrasting steel reflectorthat amplifies and softens the light. Slim, polished metal support rods introduce a subtle gleam, underscoring the lamp’s purposeful, engineered aesthetic. An easy-to-reach inline switch sits along the cable, replaced in recent years with a faithful period-correct version.
More than half a century on, the “Commissar” feels strikingly contemporary: compact, utilitarian, and quietly sculptural.
This lamp is in good vintage condition, with small, expected signs of use - minor scratches to the base and body that testify to its working life. The lamp has been fully serviced, fitted with a new identical switch and cable, and is in perfect working order.
A true icon of Czechoslovak design - functional, characterful, and built for decades of use. I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources and 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.
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- Dimensions
- 23.62ʺW × 6.3ʺD × 21.65ʺL
- Styles
- Mid-Century Modern
- Period
- 1960s
- Country of Origin
- Czechia
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Bakelite
- Condition
- Good Condition, Unknown, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Black
- Condition Notes
- Patina Consistent with Age and Use,Rewired and/or New Electrical Components Patina Consistent with Age and Use,Rewired and/or New Electrical Components less
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
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