Hans-Agne Jakobsson ceiling lamp

The T-605 ceiling lamp, designed by Hans-Agne Jakobsson in 1965 and produced by his own firm in Markaryd, Sweden, is a quintessential expression of Jakobsson’s dedication to atmospheric lighting through soft materials and layered form. This rare model exemplifies his innovative approach to diffusing light in ways that transform a space with subtlety and warmth, rather than sharp illumination.

The lamp’s structure centers around a brass frame, executed with Jakobsson’s characteristic attention to proportion and visual balance. The brass, now displaying a gentle, even patina, offers a quiet richness—its golden tone both grounding and reflective. The polished finish complements the cascading fringe shade, reinforcing the lamp’s sculptural, almost textile-like presence.

The defining element of the T-605 is its fringe shade, composed of multiple tiers of golden silk threads that drape in concentric layers from the central fixture. This design transforms the lamp into a glowing chandelier-like object while avoiding the hardness of glass or bare bulb visibility. When lit, the fringes softly filter and diffuse the light, casting a warm ambient glow and subtle shadow play across surrounding surfaces. The result is a lighting experience that is tactile, sensual, and spatially immersive.

The use of silk fringe—an unconventional material in mid-century lighting—was a hallmark of Jakobsson’s work during the 1960s. His use of fringe was not merely decorative, but conceptual: it served to humanize light, soften interiors, and create a rhythm of movement and shadow that echoed natural phenomena like falling water or swaying grass. The golden tone of the fringe in this model adds to the radiance of the lamp, amplifying its effect without dominating its surroundings.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson (1919–2009) was one of Sweden’s most imaginative lighting designers, celebrated for his departure from functionalist orthodoxy in favor of mood and visual comfort. His pieces often pushed the boundaries of traditional lighting through the use of organic forms and unorthodox materials. Through his eponymous firm in Markaryd, Jakobsson created designs that became iconic for their ability to create enveloping light environments with gentle elegance.

This example of the T-605 is in excellent vintage condition. The brass frame is structurally intact and evenly aged, with a pleasing patina that reflects its mid-century origins. The silk fringes are remarkably well-preserved—retaining their soft texture, uniform drape, and golden hue with minimal signs of fading or wear.

As a lighting object, the T-605 is both functional and atmospheric—ideal for dining areas, living rooms, or any space that benefits from diffused, emotionally resonant light. It stands as a sculptural artifact of Scandinavian lighting history, encapsulating Jakobsson’s poetic vision of light as a medium for warmth, intimacy, and visual tranquility.