Poul Henningsen table lamp

The rare table lamp model PH-3.6/2½, designed by Poul Henningsen and produced by Louis Poulsen in Denmark during the 1940s, stands as a remarkable example of early modern Scandinavian lighting design—fusing technical innovation with sculptural elegance. As part of Henningsen’s legendary PH system, this model exemplifies his foundational design principles: to create glare-free, evenly distributed light while shaping a warm, atmospheric environment.

The lamp is constructed with a stem and base in browned brass, now richly patinated from age. The warm, darkened metal surface enhances the lamp’s historic character and lends it a subdued, luxurious finish. This material choice reflects the era’s emphasis on high-quality, enduring materials and gives the piece a visual weight that contrasts elegantly with the lightness of the shade configuration.

The triple-shade system—Henningsen’s signature design innovation—is realized here in lacquered aluminum. The outer surfaces are finished in a soft yellow tone, a rare and expressive variant that adds both chromatic warmth and aesthetic uniqueness. Internally, the shades are lacquered in white to maximize light reflection and diffuse the illumination evenly. This configuration ensures that the majority of the light is directed downward while gently radiating outward, creating a soft glow that enhances the ambient quality of the surrounding space.

The tiered 3.6/2½ shade ratio is a specific and less common variation within the PH series. The top shade, measuring 3.6 times the diameter of the smallest, is proportioned to optimize light distribution for table-height use, offering precise control over the spread of light without introducing harsh contrasts. This design allows the lamp to function as both a task light and a mood-setting piece, ideal for reading tables, desks, or sideboards.

Poul Henningsen (1894–1967), a pioneering figure in Danish design, developed his first multi-shade lamp in the 1920s, driven by a deep understanding of light physics and a desire to improve the human experience of artificial illumination. His lifelong collaboration with Louis Poulsen produced some of the most enduring and technically sophisticated lighting designs of the 20th century.

This PH-3.6/2½ example is in good vintage condition. The brass has acquired a consistent, aged patina, which adds depth and authenticity, while the lacquered aluminum shades retain their original finish with only minor wear and surface marks—expected for a piece of this age. The lamp remains structurally sound and fully functional.