Louis Poulsen ceiling lamp

This rare ceiling lamp, model A 50, was designed and produced by Louis Poulsen in Denmark during the 1930s. The lamp is an early example of Scandinavian modern lighting design, reflecting both functionalist and decorative tendencies of the period. Its construction features a series of concentric, downward-facing metal shades arranged in a stepped, tiered composition. This configuration serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose, diffusing light evenly across a space while minimizing glare.

The lamp is crafted from lacquered metal with a warm, golden-bronze tone, creating a subdued yet sophisticated presence. The surfaces retain the original lacquer, showing signs of age through a lightly patinated finish and minor wear consistent with its vintage origin. The contrasting black ceiling mount provides a subtle accent to the overall composition. When illuminated, the lamp emits a warm, indirect light that softly reflects off the metallic surfaces, producing a layered lighting effect characteristic of early Scandinavian lighting solutions.

Louis Poulsen, the designer and producer, is one of the most significant names in Scandinavian lighting. Founded in 1874, the company became internationally renowned for its collaboration with leading designers such as Poul Henningsen and Arne Jacobsen. While the A 50 model is less frequently encountered than Poulsen’s later creations, it illustrates the company’s early commitment to combining technical refinement with modernist aesthetics. The design of the A 50 reflects influences from the Art Deco movement, visible in the geometric simplicity and tiered symmetry, yet remains rooted in Scandinavian functionalism.

The lamp remains in good condition for its age. The lacquered surfaces display small spots and fine marks typical of period lighting fixtures that have seen careful use over decades. The fixture is structurally sound and fully operational, suitable for continued use in both residential and commercial interiors that appreciate early modern Scandinavian lighting design.

The dimensions of this lamp are 56 cm in diameter and 45 cm in height, which corresponds approximately to 22 inches in diameter and 17.7 inches in height.