Thomas Valentiner floor lamp

This rare adjustable floor lamp, designed by Thomas Valentiner and produced by Poul Dinesen in Denmark, is a compelling representation of Danish modernist lighting design. The piece merges refined functionality with material honesty, exemplifying the mid-century Scandinavian emphasis on craftsmanship, utility, and elegant simplicity.

The lamp features a brass structure with an articulated arm, allowing for flexible positioning of the light source. The brass has developed a warm, natural patina over time, with subtle surface variation that highlights the age and quality of the material. The arm’s adjustability is smoothly engineered, providing practical versatility for use as a reading lamp or for directed ambient lighting.

The original lampshade is conically shaped and finished in a deep green lacquer, offering a bold but tasteful contrast to the warm brass. The lacquer is in excellent vintage condition, showing only minor wear and retaining its rich color and smooth finish. The conical form of the shade focuses light downward, while its interior is designed to diffuse the glow softly and evenly.

The proportions of the lamp are carefully considered. The vertical stem supports the extended arm without visual heaviness, and the shade’s modest scale ensures that the overall form remains slender and balanced. The design favors precision and utility without sacrificing aesthetic clarity, making it suitable for both domestic and architectural settings.

Condition is very good, with all original components preserved. The brass is structurally intact and exhibits no signs of corrosion or damage, and the mechanical joints function as intended. The green lacquered shade shows only minor signs of handling, consistent with the lamp’s age.

Thomas Valentiner was active in the mid-20th century and is known for his thoughtful, well-constructed lighting pieces. Poul Dinesen, a Danish cabinetmaker and furniture producer, collaborated with leading designers of the time, upholding high standards of workmanship. This lamp is a testament to both Valentiner’s design sensibility and Dinesen’s production quality.

Dimensions: 26.5 cm width × 73 cm depth × 145 cm height
In inches: 10.4 in × 28.7 in × 57.1 in