Mauri Almari ceiling lamp
This rare and large ceiling lamp, model K1-40, was designed by Mauri Almari and manufactured by Idman in Finland. The piece exemplifies the refined and architectural character of Finnish mid-century lighting design, combining structured symmetry with a warm material palette. Almari’s approach to lighting is evident in the lamp’s harmonious proportions and elegant use of materials, designed to enhance both ambient lighting and visual presence.
The construction features a central brass structure from which multiple conical glass shades extend outward in a radial arrangement. Each shade is formed from yellow-tinted opaline glass, creating a gently glowing surface when illuminated. The yellow tint of the glass adds warmth to the light and enriches the overall atmosphere of the space. The shades are smooth and uniform in shape, contributing to the lamp’s cohesive and sculptural appearance.
The supporting framework, suspension rod, and ceiling cap are all executed in polished brass. The radial arms attach to a central hub with precision, emphasizing a sense of engineered balance and formal rhythm. The polished brass surfaces, while reflective, have developed a natural patina with age, adding character and underscoring the piece’s vintage authenticity. The contrast between the cool smoothness of the opaline glass and the warm metallic tone of the brass is a defining element of the design.
The lamp remains in good vintage condition. The brass structure shows signs of age-related wear and oxidation, consistent with a well-preserved historical lighting piece. These surface changes enhance the patinated aesthetic rather than detract from it. The glass shades are in excellent condition, free from chips, cracks, or discoloration, maintaining their original clarity and shape.
Mauri Almari was a prominent figure in Finnish industrial and lighting design during the mid-20th century. His collaboration with Idman resulted in several distinctive models characterized by technical precision and material refinement. Idman, as a key Finnish lighting manufacturer of the period, was known for producing high-quality fixtures for both domestic and architectural use. The model K1-40 stands out as an example of Almari’s ability to integrate modernist principles with a decorative sensibility.
The lamp measures 85 cm in diameter and 95 cm in height. In inches, this corresponds to approximately 33.5 inches in diameter and 37.4 inches in height.
Dimensions (cm) | H: 95 / ⌀: 85 |
| Producer | Idman |
| Color | Gold, Yellow |
| Decade | 1950s |
| Country | Finland |
| Style | Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
| Material | Brass, Opaline glass |
| Designed in | 1950s |
| Item Number | 232699 |
Mauri Almari