Poul Henningsen ceiling lamp

This rare PH-5 ceiling lamp, designed by Poul Henningsen and produced by Louis Poulsen in Denmark, is an early example of one of the most iconic lighting designs of the 20th century. Marked with the designation “Patented” this model dates to the 1920s, distinguishing it from later production runs and underscoring its historical significance within the evolution of Scandinavian lighting design.

The lamp is constructed from copper, a material less commonly seen in later versions, which imparts a unique character through its natural aging process. The surface exhibits a rich, uneven patina developed over decades, contributing to the lamp’s authentic vintage appeal. The design is based on Henningsen’s tiered shade system, engineered to diffuse light in a controlled manner. The multi-shade configuration eliminates glare while reflecting light both downward and outward, producing a soft and evenly distributed illumination ideal for dining or living areas.

At the core of the PH-5’s design is Henningsen’s principle of layered reflection and his pursuit of functional aesthetics. Each tier of the lamp is proportioned according to precise geometric ratios to ensure even light dispersion and visual comfort. The copper construction also provides a subtle warm tint to the light, further enhancing the atmosphere in the room.

Poul Henningsen (1894–1967) was a pioneering figure in Danish design, particularly in the field of lighting. His collaboration with Louis Poulsen began in the 1920s and produced a series of influential models that reshaped the understanding of light behavior in interior settings. The PH-5, introduced in 1958, was a culmination of decades of research into glare-free, indirect lighting, and remains one of the most celebrated and enduring lighting designs globally. This early version, produced in the 1920s and marked with “Patented” represents a rare and highly collectible variant.

The lamp is fitted with an E27 socket and includes an adjustable suspension, allowing the overall hanging height to be adapted to a variety of ceiling heights and spatial configurations.

The dimensions of the lamp are 50 cm in diameter and 32 cm in height, with an overall adjustable hanging height up to 145 cm. In imperial units, this equates to approximately 19.7 inches in diameter, 12.6 inches in height, and a maximum overall hanging length of 57.1 inches.