Hans-Agne Jakobsson table lamps

This rare pair of table lamps, model B-142, designed by Hans-Agne Jakobsson and produced by his own firm in Markaryd, Sweden during the 1950s, exemplifies the designer’s signature approach to light as both atmosphere and form. These lamps are particularly notable for their tiered, slatted construction—an architectural composition that transforms brass into a warm, glowing volume when illuminated.

Each lamp is constructed from solid brass, with a cylindrical base providing visual and physical weight. Rising from the base is the distinctive shade composed of multiple horizontal slats, arranged in a stacked, tiered formation. This layering creates a sculptural lantern-like effect and allows light to gently escape between the slats, casting a diffuse and ambient glow. This design not only softens the light but also lends the lamps a rich visual texture, especially when viewed at different angles.

The upper section of each lamp is fitted with a perforated brass diffuser, another signature element in Jakobsson’s lighting work. The diffuser subtly controls the upward projection of light while adding another layer of detail to the design. The perforations contribute to a dappled light effect that complements the horizontal slats, enriching the visual play between opacity and transparency.

The brass surfaces have developed a deep and consistent patina over time, enhancing the warmth and character of the lamps without compromising their original refinement. This aged finish speaks to the authenticity and vintage nature of the pieces, offering both visual depth and historical integrity.

The proportions of the lamps are well-balanced, with the cylindrical base anchoring the lighter, layered upper structure. This design is both decorative and utilitarian—an object that occupies space sculpturally, while also providing a gentle, ambient source of light. The lamps retain their original manufacturer’s labels on the base, confirming their provenance and production origin.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson (1919–2009) was one of the most inventive figures in mid-century Scandinavian lighting design. Trained in cabinetmaking and architecture, Jakobsson developed a unique design language rooted in material exploration and the manipulation of light. He founded Hans-Agne Jakobsson AB in 1951, and his designs from the 1950s to 1970s remain highly sought after for their craftsmanship and atmospheric quality.

Jakobsson was deeply interested in the emotional and spatial effects of lighting. His designs often featured innovative use of layered components—slats, veneers, or perforated metals—to diffuse light and eliminate harsh glare, creating warmth and intimacy. This pair of model B-142 table lamps exemplifies those priorities, blending structure with soft luminosity.

In very good vintage condition, these lamps show only minor signs of wear consistent with age. Their rich brass patina, original components, and intact labels make them highly collectible and suitable for both private and institutional collections focused on Nordic modernism.

The B-142 lamps stand as a testament to Jakobsson’s artistry—where form, material, and light converge in a unified, tactile design. They serve as sculptural light sources that enrich any space with both their presence and the atmosphere they create.