Hans-Agne Jakobsson table lamp

This table lamp, model B-102, was crafted in the 1950s by Hans-Agne Jakobsson AB in Markaryd, Sweden, and embodies a harmonious interplay of metal and glass. Its base is formed from a cylindrical brass tube set upon a wide circular foot. Over time, the brass has developed a soft, patinated surface with areas of natural oxidation and subtle surface wear, lending the lamp a warm, aged character without compromising structural integrity.

The mouth-blown glass shade is tinted in a pale, translucent green and takes on a gentle bottle shape: a slightly flared neck gives way to a rounded cylindrical body. The glass walls are of moderate thickness, allowing the filament’s shape to remain visible when illuminated, while still providing a diffused, atmospheric glow. The shade rests upon a scalloped brass crown that secures the bulb holder, its decorative silhouette underscoring the lamp’s dual focus on craftsmanship and function.

When powered, the lamp emits an amber-green light that radiates softly through the tinted glass, creating pools of subdued illumination that are characteristic of Jakobsson’s approach to mood lighting. The design prioritizes gentle diffusion over direct brightness, producing a contemplative ambiance rather than harsh glare. This quality makes the B-102 equally suited to bedside reading or quiet living spaces where a calm, warm light is desired.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson (1919–2009) trained as both a cabinetmaker and an architect before founding his own lighting workshop in the early 1950s. His designs are marked by an experimental use of natural materials, an emphasis on elegant, pared-down silhouettes, and an interest in the interplay of shadow and form. The B-102, with its marriage of patinated brass and mouth-blown glass, exemplifies his belief that lighting should be both a functional object and a piece of sculptural artistry.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson AB, based in Markaryd, gained international recognition for innovative lighting throughout the mid-20th century. The company combined artisanal techniques—such as hand-blowing glass and hand-finishing metal—with small-batch production, ensuring each lamp bore subtle variations that attest to its handcrafted origins. Models like the B-102 were produced in limited runs, making surviving examples particularly prized by collectors of Scandinavian design.

This particular lamp remains in good vintage condition. The brass exhibits a consistent patina with minimal dents or scratches, and the glass shade is free of cracks, chips, or repairs. Its dimensions are 15 cm in diameter at the shade’s widest point and 36 cm in overall height (approximately 5.9 by 14.2 inches), proportions that strike a balance between presence and refinement.