1960s Lunar Glow: Midcentury Modern Glass Orb Lamp by Paul Mayen for Habitat

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Description

Lunar Glow: Extra-Large Glass Orb Lamp
by Paul Mayen for Habitat
Mid-20th Century, Circa 1960s–1970s

This striking "extra-large" table lamp … Read more Lunar Glow: Extra-Large Glass Orb Lamp
by Paul Mayen for Habitat
Mid-20th Century, Circa 1960s–1970s

This striking "extra-large" table lamp was possibly designed by the influential Paul Mayen for his firm, Habitat. Embracing the minimalist aesthetic of the Space Age, the lamp consists of a large, perfectly spherical orb made of translucent white opal glass. When illuminated, the glass diffuses light evenly across its entire surface, creating a soft, celestial glow reminiscent of a full moon.

The design is remarkably pure, featuring no visible hardware or ornamentation, allowing the geometric form and the quality of the glass to take center stage. Its substantial scale makes it a dominant presence in a modern interior, functioning as both a primary light source and a bold piece of minimalist art.

While the lamp was designed and marketed by Habitat in the U.S., they frequently sourced their high-quality, hand-blown glass globes from Poland. Poland—specifically the Krosno region—was a world-renowned hub for opal and "milk" glass during the mid-century period.

Measurements:
Height: 13 inches (33.0 cm)
Width: 12 inches (30.5 cm)

Mark: Sticker on the glass reading, "Made in Poland".

Historical Context: Paul Mayen and Habitat

Paul Mayen (1916–2000) was a pivotal figure in 20th-century American design. He founded Habitat Inc. in New York in the late 1950s, a company that became synonymous with high-end, architecturally-driven lighting. Mayen is perhaps most famous for his close personal and professional relationship with Edgar Kaufmann Jr., the man who commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater. In fact, Mayen designed several fixtures specifically for the iconic house.

Mayen's work for Habitat is celebrated for its "honesty of material" and lack of clutter. His designs are included in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. This specific orb lamp is part of a series that helped define the 1960s trend toward "living environments" where lighting was integrated as a sculptural element rather than just a functional utility.

(Ref: NY11089-pnmx) See less