Bent Karlby table lamp

This rare table lamp was designed by Bent Karlby and produced by Lyfa in Denmark during the 1950s. Constructed from brass and mahogany, the lamp exemplifies the refined, atmospheric lighting designs characteristic of the Scandinavian mid-century modern movement. The lamp features a wide, conical brass shade with evenly spaced perforations around its edge. These perforations serve both decorative and functional purposes, creating a subtle halo of light when illuminated, while also enhancing the visual appeal of the piece.

The lamp’s structure is anchored by a circular, polished brass base and a central stem, also made of brass. The stem is accented with a cylindrical mahogany grip, detailed with narrow brass bands. This combination of warm wood and polished metal is a hallmark of Karlby’s design philosophy and of Scandinavian design as a whole, where the integration of natural and industrial materials was often emphasized.

The patina on the brass shows signs of age and oxidation, particularly on the inner surface of the shade and the stem, which reflects its original vintage condition. The wood element retains its original finish, with only minor signs of wear. The lamp is fitted with a dual-socket configuration housed beneath the shade, connected by a bent brass crossbar, allowing for a functional and visually cohesive design.

Bent Karlby was a Danish architect and lighting designer who collaborated with Lyfa, one of Denmark’s leading lighting manufacturers during the post-war period. Karlby’s work was known for its sculptural, yet understated qualities, often focusing on soft light diffusion and high-quality materials. Lyfa, known for its role at the forefront of Danish lighting design, worked with several prominent designers during the mid-20th century to produce fixtures that are now considered modernist icons.

The lamp measures 40 cm in diameter and 47 cm in height, which corresponds to approximately 15.7 inches in diameter and 18.5 inches in height. This piece remains a timeless example of Danish lighting design, combining beauty and functionality in a harmonious form.