Harald Notini floor lamp

This rare floor lamp, designed by Harald Notini and produced by Arvid Böhlmarks Lampfabrik in Sweden during the 1940s, represents a sophisticated integration of material contrast, functional clarity, and restrained ornamentation—hallmarks of Scandinavian lighting design in the mid-20th century. The lamp reflects Notini’s nuanced approach to form and utility, where each element is carefully considered to achieve both aesthetic refinement and ambient performance.

The vertical structure consists of a solid brass stem, which is partially encased in a leather wrap. This tactile combination of warm metal and natural hide introduces a material dialogue that subtly emphasizes the craftsmanship inherent in the piece. The brass has developed a rich, warm patina over time, lending visual depth and a sense of age-appropriate character to the surface. The leather wrapping, likely hand-stitched, softens the visual line of the shaft and enhances the ergonomic and decorative qualities of the lamp.

The base, also made from solid brass, provides both visual grounding and structural stability. Its understated geometry supports the more detailed upper portion of the lamp without distraction, maintaining a clean and balanced profile. The upper section is defined by a finely pleated linen lampshade in original condition, notable for its delicate texture and its ability to diffuse light softly and evenly. Beneath the shade, an opaline glass diffuser is housed discreetly, ensuring glare-free illumination and further enhancing the warmth and clarity of the emitted light.

Harald Notini, an influential figure in early modern Scandinavian lighting, was known for his sensitivity to materials and his capacity to imbue functional objects with quiet elegance. His collaborations with Böhlmarks, a leading Swedish lamp manufacturer of the time, resulted in a number of iconic pieces that combined artisanal detail with progressive formal restraint. This floor lamp exemplifies those principles, serving as both a lighting instrument and a sculptural furnishing.

Measuring 153 cm in height (60.2 inches) with a shade diameter of 45 cm (17.7 inches), the lamp is proportioned to function effectively in both intimate and formal settings, offering ambient lighting while contributing architectural presence. Its original components and preserved condition, including the pleated shade and opaline diffuser, further enhance its historical and collectible significance.

This floor lamp stands as a testament to Harald Notini’s design philosophy, where functionality, material quality, and visual harmony converge to form a timeless expression of Swedish modernism.