Tapio Wirkkala table lamp

This very rare table lamp and wall lamp, model KD-11, was designed by Tapio Wirkkala in 1954 and produced by the Finnish lighting manufacturer Idman. As a dual-function piece, the KD-11 combines formal clarity with practical versatility, reflecting Wirkkala’s design ethos rooted in material sensitivity, refined proportions, and functional elegance.

The lamp features a conical shade made of white lacquered metal, with a clean, smooth surface that is subtly tapered and slightly flared toward the open end. The white lacquer exhibits minor surface wear consistent with age and use, contributing to the authenticity of the piece. The shade is mounted on a slender brass arm that extends from the main structural support. The brass components have developed a natural patina over time, with light oxidation and discoloration that add visual depth and underscore the lamp’s vintage character.

A notable detail of the KD-11 is the leather-wrapped section along the lower stand. The leather is warm brown in tone, showing slight wear from handling but remaining intact. This element introduces both tactile richness and a visual contrast against the cooler brass and white lacquer, further enhancing the lamp’s balanced aesthetic.

The lamp is designed to function either as a freestanding table lamp or as a wall-mounted fixture. The brass arm and conical shade are articulated to allow directional adjustment, accommodating both task lighting and ambient illumination. The design’s compact footprint and lightweight materials make it ideal for flexible use in domestic or studio environments.

Tapio Wirkkala, a central figure in Finnish design, is recognized for his multidisciplinary work across industrial design, sculpture, and applied arts. His collaboration with Idman resulted in a small series of lighting objects that are now highly collectible. The KD-11, with its precise construction and restrained material palette, stands as an early and sophisticated example of Scandinavian lighting design from the 1950s.

Dimensions: 17.5 cm width × 38 cm depth × 39 cm height
In inches: 6.9 in × 15.0 in × 15.4 in