Table lamps

This rare pair of table lamps, produced in Sweden and attributed to an unknown designer, exemplifies mid-century Swedish lighting with its understated elegance and emphasis on material harmony. The design is characterized by a restrained use of decorative elements and a functional, yet refined, form that reflects the Scandinavian modernist ethos of the 1950s and 1960s.

The lamps feature cylindrical bases crafted from polished brass. The brass has developed a natural patina over time, imparting depth and tonal variation to the surface, while still retaining its original reflective quality. At the lower section of each lamp, the base widens into a semi-circular form, offering stability and introducing a visual counterbalance to the vertical shaft. Horizontal ribbed detailing above the base adds a subtle textural contrast and reinforces the geometric clarity of the design.

Each lamp is topped with its original pleated lampshade in a cream or off-white fabric. The pleating creates a soft interplay of light and shadow across the surface, while the fabric diffuses the light to produce a warm, ambient glow. The combination of the warm brass and soft textile contributes to a sense of visual balance and material contrast.

The lamps measure 60 cm in height (23.6 inches) with a shade diameter of 15 cm (5.9 inches), making them well-proportioned for use on bedside tables, consoles, or desks. Their compact footprint and refined styling make them adaptable to various interior settings.

Condition is good overall, with minor signs of wear and surface oxidation on the brass elements, typical for vintage pieces of this age. The fabric shades are well-preserved and consistent with the original design intent, maintaining both aesthetic and functional qualities.

Although the designer is unknown, the lamps’ form and detailing are indicative of Swedish mid-century design, which often prioritized clarity of form, honest materials, and craftsmanship. This pair stands as a representative example of the era’s domestic lighting, combining utilitarian purpose with quiet sophistication.