Simon P. Henningsen ceiling lamp

This rare ceiling lamp, model Casablanca, was designed by Simon P. Henningsen and produced by Lyfa in Denmark. It stands as a vivid example of mid-century Danish lighting design, combining geometric abstraction with dramatic color treatment. The form is a rectilinear composition of intersecting panels arranged in a layered, cube-like structure. The panels are crafted from thin sheet metal and finished in iridescent colors that shift between purple, gold, and deep red depending on the light conditions and viewing angle. This play of surface and light lends the lamp a dynamic and sculptural character, making it both a functional light fixture and a visual centerpiece.

The design reflects Henningsen’s interest in optical effects and spatial complexity, qualities that distinguish much of his work. The panels are suspended with precision to allow light to diffuse outward through the gaps and reflect from the metallic surfaces, creating an ambient glow and casting subtle shadows. The internal structure is discreet, allowing the decorative elements to dominate without visible fasteners or interruptions.

The lamp is in good vintage condition, with minor wear and surface irregularities consistent with its age. The iridescent surfaces show light patina and a few small marks, which contribute to the lamp’s authentic appearance and reinforce its status as an original mid-century piece.

Simon P. Henningsen, the son of famed lighting designer Poul Henningsen, developed his own distinctive design language during the 1950s and 60s. His work often employed color, geometry, and reflection to create atmospheric lighting environments. Lyfa, the Danish lighting manufacturer, was known for producing innovative and high-quality designs throughout the 20th century. The Casablanca model was named as a humorous reference to the Danish phrase “kasse der blinker,” or “box that shines,” and the street on which Lyfa was headquartered, Blanka Road. The naming, credited in part to Bente Henningsen, reflects the informal and imaginative design culture in which the lamp was conceived.

Dimensions: 18 cm width × 18 cm depth × 26 cm height
In inches: 7.1 in × 7.1 in × 10.2 in