Frits Schlegel table lamp

This rare table lamp, model B29, was designed by the Danish architect and designer Frits Schlegel and produced by Lyfa in Denmark during the 1950s. It is constructed in brass, a material frequently employed in Scandinavian modern design for its durability and ability to develop a warm, natural patina over time. The lamp exhibits a clear mid-century Scandinavian aesthetic, balancing functional clarity with refined proportions.

The lamp features a sharply conical shade mounted on an angular arm, which is connected to a tall cylindrical stem. The base is designed with four flat, projecting feet arranged in a cross formation, providing both stability and a distinct geometric presence. The brass surface shows a naturally aged patina, with signs of use consistent with its age, which enhances the lamp’s authenticity and historical value. The angled arm allows the shade to direct light effectively, reflecting Schlegel’s architectural approach to functional lighting design.

Frits Schlegel (1896–1965) was primarily known as an architect but also created furniture and lighting, often characterized by structural rigor and modernist restraint. His works for Lyfa demonstrate his interest in combining architectural precision with everyday utility. Lyfa, one of Denmark’s leading lighting manufacturers of the mid-20th century, was recognized for its collaborations with prominent designers and for advancing modern Danish lighting design.

The lamp stands as an example of mid-century Scandinavian design, where functionalism is softened by the use of warm, tactile materials. Its form is at once minimal and sculptural, making it a representative piece of Schlegel’s design ethos and Lyfa’s production quality.

Dimensions: width 21.5 cm (8.5 in), depth 40 cm (15.7 in), height 60 cm (23.6 in)