Arvid Böhlmark table lamp

This very rare table lamp, model 6942, was designed by Arvid Böhlmark and produced by Arvid Böhlmarks Lampfabrik in Sweden during the 1920s. The lamp is a distinctive example of early 20th-century Swedish craftsmanship, combining neoclassical-inspired design elements with the functionalist principles that would later define Scandinavian modernism. Crafted from lacquered metal and brass, the lamp features a distinctive patinated surface, indicative of its age and provenance, with a rich, timeworn quality that enhances its character.

The lamp’s silhouette is marked by a tapered, fluted stem that supports a broad, sloped metal shade in dark green. The design of the shade is elegant, with a decorative brass finial crowning the top, adding a refined touch to the overall form. The interior of the shade retains its original finish, specifically designed to optimize light reflection and create a warm, diffused glow when illuminated.

The base of the lamp is composed of turned brass elements, which add visual weight and stability to the piece. The base houses a twin-bulb configuration with Bakelite fittings, providing ample lighting while maintaining the lamp’s functional elegance. The lamp also holds historical significance, having been part of the service room collection at the Nordiska Museum, further enhancing its appeal to collectors and those interested in Swedish design history.

The style of the lamp can be described as Scandinavian modern, reflecting early 20th-century Swedish design, which often merged functional ideals with classical detailing. This combination of practicality and aesthetic refinement makes the lamp a rare and important example of Böhlmark’s work.

The dimensions of the lamp are as follows: a diameter of 36.5 cm (14.4 inches) and a height of 54 cm (21.3 inches), making it a substantial yet elegant piece suitable for a variety of interiors, where it can serve as both a functional lighting solution and a historical design statement.