Table Lamp by Sigfried Giedion for BAG Turgi, 1940s

Details

Description

An elegant and distinctive swiss modernist desk lamp designed by sigfried giedion and manufactured by bag turgi, switzerland, during the … Read more An elegant and distinctive swiss modernist desk lamp designed by sigfried giedion and manufactured by bag turgi, switzerland, during the 1930s–1940s.

the lamp features a beautifully proportioned white lacquered sheet-metal shade with two subtle decorative grooves. It is supported by two slender nickel-plated metal rods, creating a light, architectural silhouette. The substantial cast-iron base, finished with a white lacquered sheet-metal cover, provides a stable foundation.

the restrained colour palette, geometric detailing and combination of industrial materials reflect the functional aesthetic of early european modernism. Both sculptural and practical, this is an appealing example of swiss lighting design from the bauhaus period.

the lamp has a single bulb holder and is fitted with a uk plug. It has been professionally checked and confirmed to be in working order.

condition
excellent vintage condition overall, retaining its attractive white lacquered finish. There are a couple of small age-related chips to the inner white lacquer of the shade. These are minor and do not significantly detract from the appearance. Please see photographs for details.

dimensions
height: 39 cm
width: 29 cm
shade diameter: 16 cm

details
designer: sigfried giedion
manufacturer: bag turgi
country of manufacture: switzerland
period: 1930s–1940s
style: bauhaus, art deco, modernist
materials: lacquered sheet metal, cast iron and nickel-plated metal
colour: white
lighting: single bulb holder
plug: eu plug
markings: stamped number 24453 on the base

about the designer — sigfried giedion
sigfried giedion (1888–1968) was a swiss architectural historian and a leading advocate of modernism. A co-founder of ciam (the congrès internationaux d'architecture moderne) in 1928, he played an influential role in shaping modern architectural thought. His interest extended beyond buildings to furniture, interiors and lighting. In 1932 he became an adviser to bag turgi, contributing to the development of modern lighting designs, including the celebrated indi series in collaboration with bauhaus-trained designer hin bredendieck.

about the manufacturer — bag turgi
bag turgi, originally bronzewarenfabrik ag turgi, was an important swiss lighting manufacturer with roots in the late nineteenth century. It became known for combining technical innovation with modern design, developing decorative and architectural lighting for both domestic and commercial interiors. During the 1930s, its collaboration with sigfried giedion and hin bredendieck helped establish its reputation for pioneering modernist lighting. The company continued producing lighting through much of the twentieth century, becoming an important name in swiss design history. This piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution,
uk plug (up to 250v).the wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less