Poul Henningsen table lamp

The PH Piano table lamp, designed by Poul Henningsen and produced by Louis Poulsen in Denmark during the 1930s, is a rare example of early Scandinavian modern lighting design. The lamp is constructed from browned brass and features a gracefully curved, adjustable arm paired with original rose-colored frosted glass shades. The shade fitting is marked “PH-2” and “Patented,” confirming its authenticity and its place within Henningsen’s pioneering lighting innovations.

Functionality and sculptural elegance are combined in the lamp’s articulated arm, which can be adjusted up or down from the joint above the switch housing. This design allows the lamp to function both as a conventional table lamp and to extend downward below the base, making it especially suitable for illuminating sheet music on a piano.

The three-tiered glass shade system exemplifies Henningsen’s signature approach to glare-free lighting. It diffuses light evenly to produce a soft, ambient glow without harsh shadows. The frosted glass shades enhance the warmth of the illumination, while the browned brass armature adds a contrasting industrial refinement.

Poul Henningsen was a pioneer of modern lighting design, focused on creating fixtures that emphasize visual comfort and efficiency. His collaboration with Louis Poulsen produced many groundbreaking designs that remain celebrated for their scientific approach to light distribution.

This lamp is preserved in vintage condition, exhibiting patina on the brass consistent with age and use. Its dimensions are 20 centimeters in width (7.9 inches), 54 centimeters in depth (21.3 inches), and 42 centimeters in height (16.5 inches), offering a compact and elegant presence tailored for functional and aesthetic use.