Desk Lamp in Orange Metal, Hungary, 1970s

Details

Description

The Hungarian vintage Szarvasi desk lamp from the 1970s is an example of mid-century modern functional design with a strong … Read more The Hungarian vintage Szarvasi desk lamp from the 1970s is an example of mid-century modern functional design with a strong geometric expression. The body of the lamp is made of steel painted in a deep, matte shade of orange – both the funnel-shaped shade and the round base present a color consistency typical of the design of that decade. Stability is ensured by a steel base with a beige plastic switch and a practical pad to prevent scratches. The main functional element is a long arm in the form of a flexible, chrome-plated “gooseneck,” allowing for easy adjustment of the lampshade's position. The whole retains simplicity and clarity of form, with an emphasis on everyday convenience and solid materials.

The lamp bears delicate traces of time: minor chips in the paint, slight scratches, and a light patina on the chrome details, while retaining the originality of all elements — good condition, authentic, consistent with the age of the item. The form and color of this lamp tell the story of Hungarian modernism — an era in which utility met bold colors. The rich, saturated orange color places the lamp in the palette of the 1970s, when intense colors stimulated everyday life and simple, industrial materials brought a breath of rational optimism. The chrome neck, gently shiny and flexible, evokes a fascination with modernity, while the weight of the steel emphasizes durability and permanence. When light reflects off the matte surface of the lampshade, a hint of that era permeates the interior – a balance between realism and design, the world of everyday matters emphasized by a single dynamic color. The lamp can be used in a home office or on a designer table next to the sofa. Its distinctive color goes well with simple, light-colored desks or graphite countertops and low mid-century style consoles. It is worth combining it with accessories made of natural materials – for example, small accessories made of aluminum, chrome, or black leather – and with textiles in a subdued palette to bring out the contrast of the era. It can be paired with minimalist shelves or posters from the 1970s to create a coherent, functional work or reading area.

The lamp is 65 cm high, its shade is 25 cm in diameter, and its flexible neck allows for easy adjustment of the light angle. The dominant materials are powder-coated steel and chrome-plated metal. The switch is conveniently located on the base, and a beige pad protects the surface of the furniture from scratches. The lamp should be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth, avoiding moisture and chemicals on chrome-plated parts.
European Plug (up to 250V).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less