Carl Fagerlund table lamps

This pair of table lamps, model RD-1323, was designed by Carl Fagerlund and produced by Orrefors in Sweden during the 1960s. The design is a notable example of Scandinavian mid-century lighting, characterized by its architectural clarity and the interplay of glass and light. Executed in thick-walled cast glass with internal sculptural voids, the lamps reflect Fagerlund’s signature exploration of transparency, material weight, and refractive properties.

Each lamp features a block-shaped glass body with a subtly tapered trapezoidal form. The outer surface is composed of clear cast crystal, while the inner structure consists of a smoky glass volume, creating a layered optical depth within the piece. The glass is hand-cast, resulting in soft surface undulations and slight irregularities that contribute to its tactile quality. The edges are gently rounded, and the base is flat and polished for stability. The inherent thickness of the glass body enhances the interaction of light with the internal form, creating a warm, diffused glow when lit.

Brass fittings cap the top of each lamp, including collars that mount the electrical components. These fittings retain their original patina, offering a subtle contrast to the transparency of the glass. The sockets are fitted with vintage ceramic holders, which exhibit minor signs of age but are consistent with the overall aesthetic and period integrity of the lamps. The underside of each piece is hand-engraved with the model number and signature—Orrefors RD 1323—confirming authenticity and production origin.

Carl Fagerlund (1915–2011) was a prominent Swedish designer who worked extensively with Orrefors from the 1940s through the 1970s. His contributions to lighting design are marked by a deep understanding of glass as a structural and light-modulating medium. Fagerlund’s work often emphasized visual depth and sculptural volume, making him a key figure in Orrefors’ international success in decorative and architectural lighting during the postwar period.

Orrefors, founded in 1898 in Småland, Sweden, gained global acclaim for its innovations in glass design, especially through the mid-20th century. Fagerlund’s lighting designs played a central role in this legacy, widely exported and collected for their clarity of form and elegant material execution.

Each lamp measures 12.5 cm in width, 9 cm in depth, and 38 cm in height (approximately 4.9 x 3.5 x 15 inches). They are sold without lampshades. Both lamps are in very good vintage condition, with only minor surface wear consistent with age. The brass components exhibit a natural patina, and the glass bodies remain free from chips or structural flaws. This pair exemplifies the thoughtful craftsmanship and material sophistication that define Carl Fagerlund’s work for Orrefors.