Hans-Agne Jakobsson table lamps

This rare pair of table lamps, model B-205, designed by Hans-Agne Jakobsson and produced by his firm in Markaryd, Sweden, during the 1950s, stands as a refined expression of Scandinavian mid-century lighting design. Known for his mastery of soft, ambient light and materials that manipulate diffusion, Jakobsson created lamps that were as much about atmosphere as they were about structure—and this model reflects that balance beautifully.

Each lamp features a gracefully composed silhouette centered around a cylindrical brass stem and base. The brass, aged naturally over time, exhibits a warm golden tone with a soft patina and light surface wear, lending the pieces an appealing vintage character. The material’s reflectivity adds a subtle luminosity even when the lamps are unlit, while the cylindrical forms maintain a clean and modernist profile.

The shades are crafted from soft white plastic—likely a form of opaline acrylic or similar mid-century material—shaped into a broad, circular form with a gently rounded upper surface. Measuring 40 cm in diameter, these shades are proportionally generous and designed to diffuse light evenly across a wide surface. The material emits a warm glow when illuminated, softening the output and contributing to a cozy and inviting atmosphere, a key aim in Jakobsson’s lighting philosophy.

The combination of brass and white plastic is emblematic of 1950s Scandinavian design: utilitarian yet refined, warm yet restrained. The contrast between the crisp white shade and the richly toned brass base creates a visually harmonious composition, ideal for interiors that value understated elegance.

Condition is good vintage. The brass elements show a well-developed patina with minor wear marks, consistent with their age and use. The white plastic shades remain intact, free of cracks or warping, and retain their original tone, offering clear and effective light diffusion.

Each lamp measures 40 cm in diameter and 56 cm in height (15.7 x 22 inches), making them suitable for bedside tables, sideboards, or living room settings where their scale and glow can be appreciated.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson (1919–2009) was one of Sweden’s most celebrated lighting designers, known for creating lighting fixtures that prioritized mood, softness, and tactility. The B-205 model is a rare and highly collectible example of his early work—merging functional clarity with the delicate play of materials and light that would define his design legacy.