Paavo Tynell ceiling lamp

This very rare height-adjustable ceiling lamp was designed by Paavo Tynell and produced by Bröderna Malmströms Metallvarufabrik in Sweden during the 1940s. It was retailed by Nordiska Kompaniet, a leading Swedish department store known for its commitment to high-quality furniture and lighting design.

The lamp is crafted from brass and features a wide, shallow dome perforated with a decorative pattern of small holes. When illuminated, these perforations create a star-like effect, adding a subtle decorative quality to the emitted light. Beneath the shade, a fabric diffuser softens the light, enhancing the lamp’s atmospheric presence. A counterweight suspension system allows the height to be adjusted, providing practical versatility in its placement and use. The brass canopy and the drop-shaped counterweight harmonize with the overall design, reinforcing the refined and elegant aesthetic.

Paavo Tynell was a seminal Finnish designer whose lighting designs are celebrated for their delicate balance of industrial materials and organic, nature-inspired details. His use of brass perforations, elegant suspension mechanisms, and sculptural forms make his work instantly recognizable and highly sought after in the field of Scandinavian lighting.

Bröderna Malmströms Metallvarufabrik was a Swedish manufacturer specializing in finely crafted brass fixtures and collaborated with prominent designers of the era, ensuring meticulous production quality. Nordiska Kompaniet, which retailed this lamp, was instrumental in promoting Scandinavian modern design and commissioning exclusive pieces from leading designers.

This ceiling lamp is a prime example of mid-century Scandinavian modernism, combining functional elegance with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to materiality. The warm brass finish, intricate perforations, and adjustable height feature contribute to its distinctive character. The lamp remains in good vintage condition, displaying a natural patina and minor signs of age-related wear consistent with its history.

The lamp measures 45.5 cm in diameter (approximately 17.9 inches), with an adjustable height ranging from 135 cm to 175 cm (approximately 53.1 to 68.9 inches).