Vilhelm Lauritzen table lamp

This rare table lamp was designed by Vilhelm Lauritzen and produced by the renowned Danish lighting manufacturer Louis Poulsen in the 1940s. It is a refined example of early Scandinavian modern lighting design, where functionality, craftsmanship, and material integrity come together in a timeless and highly architectural form.

The lamp is crafted primarily from brass, which has developed a warm, rich patina over time, attesting to its age and authenticity. The gently curved arm extends from a circular base and leads to an organically shaped shade with a soft, asymmetric contour. This sculptural profile is characteristic of Lauritzen’s work, which often merged precise engineering with an organic design language to achieve both optimal light distribution and aesthetic balance. A distinctive feature of this model is the vertically ribbed green vinyl detail on the stem, which introduces a subtle yet striking contrast to the brass structure. The adjustable shade allows for directed illumination, reflecting Lauritzen’s focus on creating lighting that responds to human needs and spatial contexts.

Vilhelm Lauritzen (1894–1984) was one of Denmark’s most influential modernist architects and designers, celebrated for shaping much of the country’s early functionalist architecture. His work on projects such as the Radiohuset (Danish Broadcasting Corporation building) and Copenhagen Airport reflected a holistic design philosophy, where furniture and lighting were conceived as integral parts of the architectural environment. Lauritzen’s collaboration with Louis Poulsen resulted in some of the most iconic Scandinavian lighting designs of the 20th century, combining sculptural elegance with technological innovation.

Louis Poulsen, established in 1874, is one of Denmark’s most significant lighting manufacturers and a pioneer of Scandinavian modern design. Known for its close collaborations with leading architects and designers, the company has played a crucial role in defining the aesthetics and functional principles of Nordic lighting. Its products are characterized by a meticulous approach to light diffusion, quality craftsmanship, and an enduring design language that transcends trends.

This piece remains in good vintage condition with visible signs of use and a beautifully aged patina that enhances its character. It represents a significant chapter in Danish design history and illustrates the careful balance of form, material, and light that defined mid-century Scandinavian modernism.

Dimensions are 15 cm wide, 38 cm deep, and 48.5 cm high (5.9 x 15 x 19.1 in)