Alvar Aalto ceiling lamp

This very rare Beehive lamp, model A335, is an early version designed by Alvar Aalto and produced by Valaistustyö in Finland in 1953. This particular example features six tiers, marking it as an early and highly sought-after variation of Aalto’s iconic design. Originally created for Finland’s University of Jyväskylä, the lamp reflects Aalto’s organic and functionalist design ethos, blending geometric form with thoughtfully engineered light diffusion.

Constructed from white lacquered metal with brass accents, the lamp’s six-tiered structure is designed to distribute light evenly. Perforated brass rings allow subtle illumination along the edges, minimizing glare while casting a warm, diffused glow—a hallmark of Aalto’s lighting philosophy. The tiered form, evocative of a beehive, showcases Aalto’s enduring inspiration from natural forms and their integration within modernist design principles.

Alvar Aalto was a leading figure in Scandinavian modernism, renowned for his architecture, furniture, and lighting designs that prioritize harmony between objects and their environment. His functional yet aesthetically refined approach has left a lasting impact on design history. Valaistustyö, the Finnish manufacturer, was instrumental in producing Aalto’s early lighting designs, helping to cement the legacy of mid-century Scandinavian lighting.

The lamp is in good original condition, showing visible patina on the brass elements and some age-related wear on the lacquered surfaces. The structure is well preserved, with minor surface imperfections consistent with its era.

The dimensions are 35 cm in diameter and 35 cm in height (13.8 by 13.8 inches), with an adjustable total drop of up to 70 cm (27.6 inches), making it a distinctive and elegant example of early Scandinavian lighting design.