Pair of Scandinavian Modern Wall Lamps in Copper by Hans Bergström, 1940s

The rare wall lamps model 1006A, designed by Hans Bergström and produced by Ateljé Lyktan in Åhus, Sweden during the 1940s, exemplify the early stages of Scandinavian modern lighting design, where material expression and functional simplicity were harmoniously integrated. Crafted from solid copper, these fixtures embody Bergström’s architectural approach to lighting—one that sought to merge sculptural form with atmospheric quality.

Each lamp features a vertically oriented cylindrical shade, its surface punctuated by evenly spaced vertical slits. These slits are precisely cut and serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, allowing light to escape in narrow beams while casting softly diffused patterns across adjacent surfaces. The effect is a distinctive interplay of light and shadow, contributing to the ambient quality of a space without overwhelming it.

The shades are supported by circular copper wall mounts that provide a strong visual and physical foundation. These mounts are kept minimal in profile, allowing the cylindrical forms to remain the visual focus. Over time, the copper has developed a rich, natural patina with tones ranging from deep bronze to greenish oxidation. This variation in surface character not only reinforces the age and authenticity of the lamps but also imbues each unit with a unique visual identity. The signs of oxidation and wear are consistent with their age and are part of their historical and aesthetic value.

Hans Bergström, who co-founded Ateljé Lyktan in 1934, was instrumental in shaping the direction of Swedish lighting design through the mid-20th century. His work often emphasized material honesty, human-centric design, and subtle decorative detailing. The model 1006A lamps reflect this approach, offering a restrained form with a layered lighting experience that enhances both architectural and domestic settings.

Each lamp measures 20 cm in width, 31 cm in height, and 22.5 cm in depth (7.9 × 12.2 × 8.9 inches), a scale that allows for versatility in application—from hallway or reading light to accent fixtures in larger interiors. Despite their patinated surfaces, the lamps remain structurally intact and operational, maintaining the integrity of their original design and fabrication.

These lamps stand as exemplary works of early Scandinavian modern lighting, where copper’s natural evolution through time was considered not a defect but a design asset—one that enriches both texture and tone. They are not only functional lighting instruments but also rare sculptural objects that reflect the ingenuity of Bergström and the artisanal rigor of Ateljé Lyktan’s early production.

Additional information:
Producer: Ateljé Lyktan
Color: Green
Decade: 1940s
Country: Sweden
Style: Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern
Material: Copper
Designed in: 1940s
Dimensions: W: 20 / D: 31 / H: 22.5 cm
Item Number: 156589