Floor Lamp in Wood and Brass, Sweden, 1940s

Details

Description

A slender composition of wood, brass and light, this floor lamp captures the restrained character of Swedish Modern design. Dating … Read more A slender composition of wood, brass and light, this floor lamp captures the restrained character of Swedish Modern design. Dating most likely from the 1940s, its construction combines natural material with an unusually expressive adjustable arm, giving the lamp a functional yet almost drawn quality.

The tall stem is assembled from turned sections of warm-toned wood, divided by ribbed brass collars. These repeated bands give rhythm to the otherwise simple vertical structure and visually connect it to the metal base and upper mechanism. Three slender brass feet extend directly from the lower collar, creating a stable tripod with very little visual weight.

Above, the character changes. A long brass arm loops around the top of the wooden stem before extending sideways in a broad curve. Its construction appears to permit adjustment, allowing the shade to move away from the central axis and direct light over a chair, side table or reading area. Swedish floor lamps of the 1940s frequently employed swivel or adjustable arms, placing flexibility at the centre of the design.

At its end, the arm curls inward to form a small hook from which the conical fabric shade is suspended. This almost calligraphic detail contrasts with the straight stem below. A porcelain fitting provides another change in material, set between aged brass and the pale textile shade.

The combination of brass and wood has close parallels in Swedish lighting of this period, including documented examples by Eskilstuna Elektrofabrik and other unidentified Swedish makers. Its exact designer and manufacturer, however, remain unidentified.

Functional adjustment and restrained ornament give this lamp a distinctly Scandinavian character. Its extended arm makes it particularly suited to a reading corner or positioned beside an armchair, where the asymmetrical silhouette can be appreciated from several angles.

The lamp is in good vintage condition with considerable age-related patination. Brass surfaces show oxidation, darkening and wear, whilst the wooden stem carries scratches, marks and areas of finish loss; these traces are clearly visible in the photographs and contribute to its period character.
European Plug (up to 250V).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less