Vilhelm Lauritzen ceiling lamp
Very rare 10-armed ringkrone ceiling lamp designed by Vilhelm Lauritzen and produced by Louis Poulsen in Denmark during the 1950s. The model reflects Lauritzen’s architectural approach to lighting, where clarity of structure, controlled illumination, and material quality are unified within a strictly geometric composition.
The fixture is constructed around a circular brass ring with a diameter of 110 cm, forming a continuous horizontal frame. The brass surface has developed a warm golden-brown patina with visible tonal variation, light surface marks, and areas of oxidation consistent with age. Ten evenly spaced arms rise from the outer circumference of the ring, each terminating in a curved brass support that holds an opaline glass shade. The suspension is achieved through three discreet wires connected to a central white-painted ceiling canopy, creating a balanced triangular support system that visually emphasizes the floating circular form.
Each shade is executed in matte opaline glass with a softly rounded, bulbous profile that narrows slightly at the top and opens downward. When unlit, the glass appears satin white with a smooth, diffused surface. When illuminated, the shades emit a warm, evenly distributed light, producing a soft ambient glow while minimizing glare. The repeated rhythm of the ten glass volumes around the ring creates a strong visual cadence, characteristic of Lauritzen’s systematic and architectural design language.
Vilhelm Lauritzen was one of the leading Danish modernist architects of the 20th century, known for integrating lighting as an essential architectural element rather than a decorative afterthought. His collaboration with Louis Poulsen resulted in several technically advanced lighting models designed to provide comfortable, glare-free illumination in both public and private interiors. The ringkrone typology became one of the defining chandelier forms of mid-century Danish design, combining classical symmetry with modernist restraint.
Louis Poulsen, founded in 1874, established itself as a pioneering lighting manufacturer through its close partnerships with architects and designers. During the 1950s, the company refined its production of brass and opaline glass fixtures, emphasizing durability, craftsmanship, and scientifically informed light distribution principles.
The lamp is in good vintage condition with visible signs of usage and natural patina on the brass components. Minor surface wear and oxidation are present, consistent with age. The opaline glass shades are well preserved and intact. The electrical components have been reviewed to ensure functional operation.
Dimensions: 110 cm in diameter and 95 cm in height (43.31 inches diameter, 37.40 inches height).
Dimensions (cm) | H: 95 / ⌀: 110 |
| Producer | Louis Poulsen |
| Color | White |
| Decade | 1950s |
| Country | Denmark |
| Style | Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
| Material | Brass, Opaline glass |
| Designed in | 1950s |
| Item Number | 250573 |
Vilhelm Lauritzen
Vilhelm Lauritzen (1894–1984) was a Danish architect and designer and a leading figure in the development of Danish functionalism. His work is characterised by clarity of structure, refined proportions, and a strong sensitivity to light, materia...
Read more