Vilhelm Wohlert wall lamps
This rare pair of wall lamps, model 204, designed by Vilhelm Wohlert and produced by Le Klint in Denmark, exemplifies the refined simplicity and warm materiality that define Scandinavian mid-century lighting design. Conceived with a deep sensitivity to both form and illumination, the model 204 seamlessly blends function, tactility, and elegance.
Each lamp features a handcrafted pleated acrylic shade in an off-white tone, shaped into a bouquet-like geometry that diffuses light softly and evenly. The sculptural shade, a hallmark of Le Klint’s design tradition, balances the line between ornament and restraint—structured in form, yet organic in the quality of the light it casts. Its pleated design allows for a gentle interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the ambiance of a room without glare.
The shade is mounted to a beautifully formed teak bracket that reflects the material richness of mid-century Danish design. The teak, now aged to a warm, reddish-brown patina, is shaped with gentle curves and precise joinery. This wooden element acts not just as a support but as an integral visual component of the lamp’s composition, providing contrast to the delicate pleats of the shade. The interplay between the organic grain of the wood and the crisp folds of the acrylic creates a dynamic and harmonious visual effect.
Model 204 embodies the collaborative spirit between Vilhelm Wohlert—a modernist architect known for his minimalist rigor and sensitivity to proportion—and Le Klint, whose artisanal lighting pieces have become iconic. Wohlert, best known for his architectural work including the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, brought an architectural logic to his lighting designs, ensuring that each piece complemented its environment without overpowering it.
Le Klint, founded in 1943, remains one of Denmark’s most esteemed lighting manufacturers. Known for their distinctive pleated lampshades, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with design innovation, resulting in lighting pieces that feel both timeless and contemporary. The model 204 is a fine example of this tradition, marrying classic materials with a sculptural yet restrained aesthetic.
In very good vintage condition, these lamps show minor signs of age-appropriate wear. The teak has developed a rich, even patina, enhancing the natural warmth and character of the wood. The pleated acrylic shades retain their structural integrity and visual clarity, with no significant discoloration or warping.
As a matched pair, these wall lamps are not only rare but also highly versatile—suitable for a wide range of interiors, from mid-century modern to contemporary minimalist. They are both functional lighting objects and sculptural additions to the wall, reflecting the best of Danish design values: honesty in materials, functional elegance, and enduring craftsmanship.
Dimensions (cm) | W: 25 / D: 26 / H: 24 |
Producer | Le Klint |
Color | Cream |
Decade | 1950s |
Country | Denmark |
Style | Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
Material | Acrylic, Teak |
Designed in | 1950s |
Item Number | 158023 |
Vilhelm Wohlert