Poul Henningsen ceiling lamp

This ceiling lamp, model Ringkrone, was designed by Poul Henningsen and produced by Louis Poulsen in Denmark during the 1930s. It exemplifies early Scandinavian modernism through its innovative multi-shade system, a hallmark of Henningsen’s approach to lighting design aimed at achieving even, glare-free illumination. The lamp is constructed from browned brass, Bakelite, and glass—materials that reflect the era’s emphasis on both technical functionality and refined aesthetics.

Poul Henningsen was a pioneering Danish designer and architect renowned for his layered shade systems that diffuse light softly while minimizing glare. His collaborations with Louis Poulsen, a leading Danish lighting manufacturer, were instrumental in defining the global reputation of Scandinavian lighting design. The Ringkrone model demonstrates this philosophy with four individual light fixtures suspended from a circular brass frame.

Each fixture features tiered glass shades in a warm amber hue, complemented by Bakelite sockets and darkened brass fittings. The overall structure hangs from a central canopy via slender brass rods, supported by an elegant brass finial, creating a visually balanced and lightweight appearance. The layered glass system diffuses light to produce a warm, inviting glow characteristic of Henningsen’s designs.

The lamp is preserved in its original condition, exhibiting patina on the brass components and age-consistent wear on the glass. Its dimensions are 56 cm in diameter and 115 cm in height, making it a significant example of early 20th-century Danish lighting innovation and craftsmanship.