Lisa Johansson-Pape ceiling lamps

The Onion ceiling lamp, designed by Lisa Johansson-Pape and produced by ASEA in Sweden during the 1950s, is an elegant and iconic example of Scandinavian mid-century lighting. Known for her refined sense of form and dedication to creating atmospheric lighting, Johansson-Pape brought a sculptural softness to functional design, and this model embodies her aesthetic with clarity and restraint.

The lamp is crafted from white opaline glass, shaped into a rounded, organic form that subtly tapers toward both the top and bottom. Its silhouette resembles that of an onion bulb—hence the model’s name—featuring a gently flared base and a narrower neck that connects to a twisted black suspension cable. The surface of the glass is smooth and evenly frosted, providing uniform light diffusion while concealing the bulb within.

When illuminated, the opaline glass glows with a warm, ambient light, making it particularly well-suited for domestic interiors where soft, glare-free illumination is desired. The even diffusion and sculptural quality of the form allow the lamp to function equally well as a source of light and as a decorative focal point within the room.

The Onion model is emblematic of Lisa Johansson-Pape’s approach to lighting: minimalist in ornament, modern in line, and sensitive to both form and atmosphere. Her collaboration with ASEA—a major Swedish lighting manufacturer—resulted in several enduring classics, and this model remains one of her most recognizable designs.

Condition is excellent vintage. The opaline glass shade is free from chips, cracks, or discoloration, retaining its original matte surface and tactile purity. The black cord and suspension are in good working condition, consistent with the lamp’s original design.

Measuring 34 cm in diameter and 31.5 cm in height (13.4 x 12.4 inches), the lamp is proportionally balanced for use as a ceiling pendant in kitchens, dining areas, or hallways, where its graceful form and warm illumination can be fully appreciated.

Lisa Johansson-Pape (1907–1989) was one of Finland’s leading lighting designers and a major contributor to the Scandinavian modern movement. Her work, combining practicality with poetic form, continues to influence lighting design internationally. The Onion model, in particular, stands as a timeless expression of her talent—refined, functional, and sculptural in equal measure.