Sven Mejlstrøm wall lamps

This rare minimalist wall lamp, model Type 99, was designed by Sven Mejlstrøm and produced by MS Belysning in Norway during the 1960s. It represents a refined example of mid-century Scandinavian lighting design, showcasing streamlined geometry, an unadorned material palette, and a focus on functional clarity.

The lamp is crafted entirely from brass, which has developed a warm, natural patina over time, contributing to its aged elegance. The main structure consists of a cylindrical tube forming the lamp holder, mounted vertically on a circular wall plate via a horizontal arm. This design is stripped of ornamentation, relying on the purity of its proportions and the raw expressiveness of its materials. The switch is integrated discreetly into the circular base, and the exposed textile cord further enhances the lamp’s utilitarian yet elegant aesthetic.

The simplicity of the vertical orientation and the deliberate exposure of the light bulb align this lamp with the minimalist lineage of mid-century Nordic design. The choice of brass reflects the Scandinavian tendency to use warm metals in lighting, offering durability while providing a soft luster that complements both ambient and direct light.

Sven Mejlstrøm, though a lesser-known figure in the Scandinavian lighting design world, made significant contributions to the field. MS Belysning, the manufacturer, was known for producing high-quality, architecturally oriented fixtures in Norway during the postwar decades. This lamp exemplifies Mejlstrøm’s design ethos, which emphasizes economy of means and visual restraint.

The lamp is marked with two original labels: one reading “DESIGNED BY SV MEJLSTRØM” and the other identifying the manufacturer “MS BELYSNING” with the model designation “TYPE 99”

The lamp’s dimensions are 10 cm in width, 12.5 cm in depth, and 23 cm in height (approximately 3.9 x 4.9 x 9.1 inches).

Condition is good vintage, with minor surface wear and subtle patination consistent with age and use. The lamp remains fully functional and is compatible with standard E14 bulbs.

This wall lamp would be well-suited for both residential and commercial interiors that value understated design and Scandinavian authenticity. Its minimalist yet elegant form makes it a versatile addition to a variety of interior settings.