Hans-Agne Jakobsson wall lamp

This wall-mounted light fixture was designed by Hans-Agne Jakobsson and produced in the 1950s by his eponymous firm, Hans-Agne Jakobsson AB in Markaryd, Sweden. The lamp is a prime example of Jakobsson’s mid-century Scandinavian design approach, characterized by atmospheric lighting, refined detailing, and a sculptural balance between form and function.

The lamp features a compact yet visually striking combination of brass and glass. The supporting structure is made from polished brass, with a cylindrical wall mount and a straight, projecting arm leading to a flared conical housing. This housing supports both the bulb socket and an inner diffuser made from perforated brass. The perforations are carefully designed to reduce glare and soften the emitted light, while also introducing a warm visual texture to the illumination pattern. When lit, the light disperses through the fine grid of circular perforations, creating a distinct halo and patterned shadows on surrounding surfaces, enhancing the lamp’s atmospheric quality.

The outer shade is made from amber-tinted blown glass, shaped into a softly domed bell form. The warm golden tone of the glass complements the polished brass beneath it, further enhancing the overall warmth of the light. The shade is open at the top, allowing for ventilation while concentrating the light downward and outward in a controlled wash. This design effectively conceals the electrical components, showcasing the craftsmanship of both the glass and metalworking in a cohesive and elegant form.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson, active primarily during the 1950s through the 1970s, is renowned for his experimentation with light modulation, favoring soft and atmospheric lighting over harsh illumination. Drawing inspiration from Scandinavian naturalism and functional modernism, Jakobsson’s work balanced utilitarian needs with a visual and poetic sensibility. His company in Markaryd became a key player in Swedish lighting design, working with architects and gaining international recognition for its innovative and beautiful lighting solutions.

The fixture is in very good vintage condition, with expected signs of age, including minor patination on the brass surfaces and natural wear consistent with its period. The glass is intact, free from cracks or major abrasions, and the perforated inner shade remains structurally and visually sound.

The lamp measures 17.5 cm in width, 21.5 cm in depth, and 28 cm in height (approximately 6.9 inches wide, 8.5 inches deep, and 11 inches high). This wall lamp is a notable example of 1950s Scandinavian lighting design, combining elegance with technical execution in a compact architectural form.