Kay Kørbing wall lamps

This wall-mounted light fixture was designed by Kay Kørbing and produced in Denmark by the renowned lighting manufacturer Lyfa during the 1960s. It is part of a rare set of three and exemplifies mid-century Scandinavian design, with a distinct architectural and industrial approach to form and light control.

The construction of the fixture is primarily composed of brass and glass. The cylindrical brass body is mounted perpendicular to the wall on a rectangular brass arm, which is affixed to a circular wall plate. The surface of the brass has acquired a naturally aged patina, featuring visible oxidation and variegation in tone, ranging from golden brown to deep amber. This patina is consistent with long-term interior or outdoor use, adding to the authenticity and character of the piece.

The design includes a circular lower drum, adorned with vertical linear perforations around the circumference. This drum encases the light source and incorporates a clear glass ring diffuser at the base, which helps to spread the light evenly while also creating a patterned shadow effect on the wall. The fixture also includes additional ventilation perforations near the top of the vertical tube, arranged in a rectangular pattern. These perforations not only contribute to heat dissipation but also enhance the overall aesthetic refinement of the design.

Kay Kørbing (1915–1989) was a Danish architect and designer known for his contributions to lighting and architectural design. His lighting designs for Lyfa are characterized by their functionalism and attention to material integrity, in line with Denmark’s modernist ethos of the mid-20th century. Lyfa, established in the early 1900s, became one of Denmark’s leading lighting manufacturers, producing innovative designs by prominent Danish designers, including Bent Karlby and Simon P. Henningsen.

This lamp provides a downward-directed light that is softened and modulated by the combination of perforations and the frosted glass diffuser. The lighting effect is atmospheric yet controlled, making the fixture suitable for both residential and architectural settings. It merges practicality with sculptural qualities, typical of Kørbing’s disciplined aesthetic.

The dimensions of the lamp are 16.5 cm in width, 19 cm in depth, and 32.5 cm in height (approximately 6.5 inches wide, 7.5 inches deep, and 12.8 inches high). The lamp remains in very good original condition, with wear consistent with age, particularly on the brass surfaces. It is structurally sound with all components intact. This piece is a rare and exceptional example of functionalist Scandinavian lighting, designed by a significant figure in Danish design and produced by a distinguished manufacturer.