Poul Henningsen ceiling lamp

This rare ceiling lamp, model PH-4/4, was designed by Poul Henningsen and produced by Louis Poulsen in Denmark during the 1930s. It represents an early example of Henningsen’s innovative multi-shade system, which was developed to create a glare-free lighting experience. The design is engineered to direct light downward while softening its intensity, ensuring an even and comfortable light distribution.

The lamp features a tiered shade system made of single-layer opaline glass. The top shade is the largest and slightly curved, allowing light to reflect gently. Below this, smaller shades progressively shape the light, guiding it to prevent harsh shadows and create a uniform illumination. The stamped “Patented” marking on the lamp indicates its early production and reflects Henningsen’s patented principle of layered indirect lighting, which revolutionized lighting design by improving the quality of light in both domestic and public spaces.

The top section of the lamp is made from metal, combining aged brass and copper, which have developed a natural patina over time, contributing to the lamp’s vintage character. The cylindrical housing, which encloses the electrical components, transitions into a slender suspension rod, maintaining the elegant proportions of the lamp while ensuring its structural stability.

Poul Henningsen (1894–1967) was a pioneering Danish designer and lighting architect known for his scientific approach to illumination. His work with Louis Poulsen fundamentally changed lighting design, and his PH series became one of the most iconic and influential collections of the 20th century. The PH-4/4 is an important part of this legacy, combining refined aesthetics with functional lighting technology in a manner that is emblematic of Scandinavian modernism.

The lamp’s dimensions are 40 cm (15.7 inches) in diameter and 40 cm (15.7 inches) in height. It remains in good vintage condition, with visible signs of aging on the metal components and minor wear on the glass surfaces, consistent with its age. This lamp is a rare and highly collectible piece of design history, exemplifying the sophistication and practicality of mid-century lighting design.