1990s Pair of California Postmodern Sculptural Frosted Resin Table Lamps by Deszign, Inc.

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An exceptional pair of California Postmodern sculptural table lamps by Deszign, Inc. of Fullerton, California, showcasing the bold architectural forms … Read more An exceptional pair of California Postmodern sculptural table lamps by Deszign, Inc. of Fullerton, California, showcasing the bold architectural forms and refined material palette that defined sophisticated American interiors during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The substantial bases are composed of thick intersecting panels forming a dramatic cruciform (cross-shaped) silhouette, giving each lamp a distinctly monolithic presence. Equal parts sculpture and functional lighting, the geometric forms possess an architectural restraint that feels remarkably current while remaining unmistakably rooted in the Postmodern design movement.

The material appears to be sandblasted or frosted acrylic (Lucite), or possibly cast resin, creating one of the lamps' most compelling qualities—its extraordinary interaction with light. Depending on the surrounding environment, the bases shift effortlessly between deep oxblood, burgundy, plum, and rich merlot tones, revealing remarkable depth and subtle tonal variation. In lower light, the forms appear dark and nearly opaque, while natural light transforms them into luminous translucent volumes with exceptional richness and depth.

The photographs taken with natural light behind the lamps best illustrate this unique characteristic and provide the most accurate representation of the remarkable color variation within the material.

The sculptural bases alone measure 11 inches wide, 9 inches deep, and 31.5 inches high to the top of the finial, giving the lamps a commanding architectural presence even before shades are installed. Completing the design are the original custom frosted lucite finials, sculpted as softly rounded organic cubes that beautifully echo both the material and geometric language of the bases. These thoughtful details reinforce the cohesive design and elevate the lamps beyond standard production lighting.

Elegant patinated brass stems provide a warm counterpoint to the sculptural bases, while the generously scaled custom rectangular shades, measuring 16.5 inches wide, 10.5 inches deep, and 13 inches high, complement the strong vertical forms and provide a refined, tailored silhouette.

Original Deszign, Inc. labels remain intact, identifying the lamps as products of the Fullerton, California manufacturer and further enhancing their appeal to collectors of late twentieth-century California design.

The restrained geometry recalls the sophisticated work of Karl Springer, Ward Bennett, and Donghia, while embracing the sculptural confidence of California Postmodernism. Unlike many exuberant Memphis-era designs, these lamps rely on proportion, material, and form rather than ornament, allowing them to integrate effortlessly into both contemporary and collected interiors.

Whether placed on bedside tables, flanking a sofa, or anchoring a substantial credenza or console, they bring a quiet monumentality to a space and function as sculptural objects even when unlit.

Architectural in both form and material, this exceptional pair exemplifies the restrained elegance of California Postmodern design—objects that are equally successful as sculpture and illumination. See less