No. 8 Desk Lamp by Clay Michie for Knoll International, 1960s

Details

Description

The No. 8 Desk Lamp, designed by Clay Michie for Knoll (also known as Knoll International), is a seminal example … Read more The No. 8 Desk Lamp, designed by Clay Michie for Knoll (also known as Knoll International), is a seminal example of American mid-century modern lighting. Introduced in 1950, the design reflects the functional elegance associated with post-war modernist design and remains one of the most recognizable desk lamps produced by Knoll.

Michie’s No. 8 Lamp was the designer’s only collaboration with Knoll, yet it achieved lasting influence thanks to its refined industrial aesthetic and highly practical articulation. The lamp features a cantilevered swivel arm capable of full 360-degree rotation, paired with a tilting shade that allows the light to be directed precisely where needed.

Its Bauhaus-influenced modernist design is defined by slender tubular metal components and clean architectural lines, emphasizing both functionality and visual clarity. The lamp is typically constructed with chrome-plated steel or brass for the arm and base, complemented by an enamelled aluminium shade—often finished in black.

A distinctive characteristic of the No. 8 Lamp is its unusually heavy weighted base, providing exceptional stability and making it one of the most substantial desk lamps produced during the mid-century period.

Today the design is regarded as an important piece of Knoll’s early lighting production and remains highly sought after by collectors of mid-century modern design.

Details
Designer: Clay Michie
Manufacturer: Knoll
Model: No. 8 Desk Lamp
Design Period: 1950
Production Period: 1950s
Country of Manufacture: United States

Materials:
Chrome-plated steel / brass
Enameled aluminum shade
Colour: Chrome, black
Style: Mid-Century Modern / Bauhaus-influenced

Features:
360° rotating articulating arm
Adjustable tilting shade
Heavy weighted base for stability

Condition:
Very good vintage condition with light age-appropriate wear consistent with use.

Dimensions:
Height: 42 cm
Width: 28 cm
Depth: 37 cm 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. See less