J.T. Kalmar floor lamp

This is a very rare floor lamp, model 2076 also known as “Dornstab” designed by Julius Theodor Kalmar in collaboration with A. Pöll, and produced by J.T. Kalmar in Vienna, Austria in 1947. The lamp exemplifies the refined material craftsmanship and functional sophistication associated with mid-century Austrian lighting design in the post-war era.

The structure is composed of a solid mahogany stem set into a U-shaped brass base, combining warm natural wood with industrial-grade metal. The mahogany support is subtly curved, giving the lamp a poised, slightly leaning stance that emphasizes its elegant verticality while enhancing the balance of its weight distribution. The base is cast in solid brass with precision-machined connections to the vertical shaft, exhibiting clear functionalism in both material and engineering detail.

The lamp is height adjustable, employing a sliding brass ring fitting that allows the conical shade to be raised or lowered. The shade is constructed from a textured parchment material with visible fiber inclusions, which add to its organic character. It is hand-stitched at the edges and mounted on a brass socket with a mahogany pull switch, harmonizing with the stem’s material. The parchment diffuses the light warmly, creating a textured, ambient glow when illuminated.

Condition is good vintage with minor signs of use. The mahogany stem has a smooth, well-preserved finish with only slight wear consistent with age. The brass elements show light patina, particularly on the base, while retaining a clean surface. The parchment shade is intact, with minor age-related darkening and a stable structure. The lamp is electrically functional and retains all original fittings.

Julius Theodor Kalmar was a prominent Austrian designer and lighting manufacturer, whose firm J.T. Kalmar became renowned for its integration of high-quality craftsmanship and modernist design in lighting. The “Dornstab” lamp represents an early post-war synthesis of architectural form and artisanry, blending warm materials with refined detailing. Its bentwood body and saddle-style base make reference to both Viennese Secessionist and Bauhaus influences, while emphasizing tactile construction.

This piece is an example of early Austrian mid-century modern design, where sculptural form, user adjustability, and luxurious yet restrained materials come together. The lamp’s character is understated but evocative, combining expressive design with robust construction.

The dimensions are 47.5 cm wide, 80 cm deep, and 150 cm high. In imperial units, that corresponds to approximately 18.7 inches wide, 31.5 inches deep, and 59.1 inches high.