Drop Pendant by Lisa Johansson-Pape for Orno, 1942

Such a beautiful early version, The Drop was designed in 1942 during the war years when materials were scarce and Johansson-Pape was just beginning her work with Stockmann-Orno. The pendant was exhibited in 1946, when production of Orno’s glass components at the Karhula glass factory resumed - it was shown that year at the Spring Exhibition at Messuhalli in Helsinki. You can see her touch, as compared to the original version in the 1939 catalogue - Pape spent a lot of time perfecting her forms, and this is an exquisite example of how her feminine language informed new production. Directly acquired from Helsinki, this lamp is a really great work of Finnish modernism.

Especially unique for its warm taupe colored glass, patinated brass fitting, original brown fabric cord, and a very cool olive-green painted canopy; the color combination is so good - quiet, unexpected, and very Finnish. Some examples are shown with an additional shade, but I love this one just as it is. The simple glass drop and brass fitting have such beautiful proportions: uncomplicated, sculptural, and completely chic. Drop dead gorgeous.

OAH 22" x 8.5" D (cord can be rewired upon request for a longer drop).

Lisa-Johansson-Pape (b. 1907 d. 1989): Likely the most significant Finnish lighting designer of the latter half of the 20th century, Lisa designed an unusually wide collection for the lighting factory Orno Oy, and explored new ideas about the principles of lighting and artificial light. The energetic Johansson-Pape was a prominent organizational person who tirelessly participated in many activities promoting Finnish design, including lifting up the works of fellow female artisans & designers. Her work in glass lamps won numerous awards, including the gold prize at the 1954 Milan Triennale and in 1957 Johansson-Pape was awarded the Pro Finlandia prize. She founded the Finnish Lighting Society and served as the artistic director of the Friends of Finnish Crafts from 1951 to 1985.