Hans-Agne Jakobsson table lamp

The very rare table lamp model B-142, designed by Hans-Agne Jakobsson and produced by Hans-Agne Jakobsson AB in Markaryd, Sweden, is a notable example of Scandinavian mid-century lighting that merges industrial precision with atmospheric warmth. This lamp exemplifies Jakobsson’s distinctive ability to sculpt light through material and structure, creating fixtures that are both visually compelling and functionally refined.

The lamp features a cylindrical shade constructed from a series of stacked horizontal metal rings, evenly spaced to allow controlled light diffusion. This layered design not only contributes to the lamp’s sculptural form but also creates a soft, ambient lighting effect as illumination escapes between the bands. At the top of the shade, a perforated metal grid furthers the diffusion process, softening the upward light and adding visual texture.

Finished in a high-polish chrome plating, the lamp presents a sleek and reflective silver surface that evokes an industrial yet elegant aesthetic. The chrome contrasts subtly with the warm amber glow emitted when the lamp is in use, producing a layered lighting experience that is both direct and ambient. This contrast between cool metallic finish and warm illumination is characteristic of Jakobsson’s refined control over lighting mood.

The structural composition is minimalist and balanced: a slender chrome-plated metal stem rises from a flat circular base, maintaining visual harmony while emphasizing verticality. The lamp’s clean lines and lack of ornamental detail focus attention on form, proportion, and light behavior—an approach that aligns with the broader Scandinavian modernist ethos.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson (1919–2009) was a celebrated Swedish lighting designer whose work is known for its sensitivity to the qualities of light and the expressive potential of materials. His designs, often inspired by organic forms and natural light, favored layered constructions and indirect illumination. Model B-142 represents his more industrial-inspired work, showing his versatility across different material palettes and design contexts.

The lamp remains in excellent vintage condition, with only minor surface wear consistent with careful use and age. The chrome finish is well-preserved, maintaining its reflective quality, and the lamp is fully functional, retaining its original visual and structural integrity.

The dimensions of the lamp are 17 cm in diameter and 33.5 cm in height, corresponding to approximately 6.7 inches in diameter and 13.2 inches in height.