Uno & Östen Kristiansson Brass Ceiling Light for Luxus AB Vittsjö, Sweden 1960s

This marvellous, brass six-light ceiling light was created in what we now call “the golden age of Scandinavian design”. The period saw the revival of an elementary, undecorated visual language, emphasizing sleek design and craftsmanship as this Swedish model demonstrates.

Uno & Östen Kristiansson’s present model has a brass body with six arms, each one holding a tubular white acrilyc shade on an elongated shade holder. Following the sleek shape of the shade holders, the rod and the arms uniting at the cluster have the same shape resulting in a sleek look with a contemporary edge. The structure is uncluttered so that the shades can stand out. The eye-catching brass body balances the minimalist look with the warmth the light creates. Thanks to the arrangement of the white acrylic shades, light is distributed evenly in all directions when switched on. The combination of materials, shapes, and textures creates this lamp’s modern, sleek design, a clear return to bright simplicity that is in opposition with the flowing, organic lines of the reconstruction of the early 20th century. Defined by long, vertical lines, this model is uniquely stylish and guaranteed to stand out. In 1950, Uno Kristiansson founded his own manufacturing company, Luxus, which was situated in Vittsjö. In the 1950s, the collections were launched nationally in Sweden, and internationally across Europe.

Swedish designers and brothers Uno & Östen Kristiansson, were particularly active from the 1950s to the 1970s in Sweden. They were prolific designers with a clear design aesthetic that is easily recognizable as Scandinavian modern.

Condition:
In good vintage condition consistent with age and use. The brass has some small marks and stains.

Dimensions:
32.28 in Ø x 33.85 in H
82 cm Ø x 86 cm H

About the Designer:
Swedish designers and brothers Uno & Östen Kristiansson, known for their lighting and mirror designs, were particularly active from the 1950s to the 1970s in Sweden. Although there is a dearth of biographical information available on the pair, their designs are nonetheless appreciated by vintage lovers, and are highly sought-after on the vintage market today.

Uno was born in 1925, and Östen two years later in 1927. Little is known about their formative years, but it can be surmised that they spent their early years in southern Sweden, learning the furniture trade from their father who ran his own furniture business, Vittsjö Furniture (established in 1919), named after the Swedish village in which it was located.

In 1950, Uno Kristiansson founded his own manufacturing company, Luxus, which was also situated in Vittsjö. He produced a range of products, including home and interior lamps, furniture and mirrors, that were designed by the two brothers. In the 1950s, the collections were launched nationally in Sweden, and internationally across Europe. In 1968, Luxus presented a collection of lamps with brightly coloured textile shades that perfectly encapsulated the mood of the 1960s. They are said to have been designed by renowned Finnish textile artist Marjatta Metsovaara (1927-2014).

It is speculated that in 1966, Östen took over his father’s business and renamed it Östen Kristiansson AB, which now operates under its original name, Vittsjö Möbelfabrik AB. It is unclear what was produced during this time, or if the company was separate from Luxus. From the 1970s, Luxus focused on the creation of lighting for public spaces, once again featuring models made from acrylic, with contrasting minimal wood details.

Shipping:
This lamp will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the item in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.

IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU.