Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamp in Brass, Leather & Linen by Hans Bergström 1940s

This exceptionally rare floor lamp, designed in the 1940s by Hans Bergström and produced by Ateljé Lyktan in Åhus, Sweden, exemplifies the refined sophistication and material richness of early Swedish modernist lighting. As one of Bergström’s more intricate and sculpturally expressive works, this piece reflects his pioneering role in shaping Scandinavian lighting design in the mid-20th century.

The lamp features a vertically oriented structure anchored by a polished brass base, which provides visual stability and a subtle golden warmth. Rising from the base is a slender stem, wrapped in finely stitched black leather arranged in a spiral pattern. This leatherwork introduces a highly tactile element, contrasting with the metal’s reflective finish and showcasing the level of detail and craftsmanship characteristic of Bergström’s early designs. The spiral motif is both decorative and structural, lending rhythm and subtle movement to the otherwise linear form.

At the top of the stem, a branching configuration of slender arms fans outward in a radial composition, each terminating in an original conical lampshade. The arms are delicately scaled, preserving the lamp’s verticality while adding a sculptural quality. The shades are made from high-quality linen fabric, slightly translucent to allow soft, diffused illumination. Their conical shape and fabric texture work in concert to produce a warm, ambient glow while projecting light both downward and outward.

The shades remain in their original form and are well-preserved, with minimal wear. The combination of brass, leather, and linen—along with the complex yet balanced form—places this lamp firmly within the upper tier of Scandinavian lighting from the period. The overall condition is very good, with light patina on the brass and subtle signs of aging on the leather and fabric, all consistent with careful long-term use.

Hans Bergström (1910–1996) was one of the founding figures of modern Swedish lighting. His work with Ateljé Lyktan, a company he co-founded in 1934, was instrumental in introducing a new language of lighting—integrating organic forms, rich materials, and a focus on how light interacted with space and texture. This floor lamp is a rare and distinguished example of that legacy, combining aesthetic restraint with luxurious detailing.

Additional information:
Producer: Ateljé Lyktan
Color: Black, Gold, White
Decade: 1940s
Country: Sweden
Style: Scandinavian Modern
Material: Brass, Leather
Designed in: 1940s
Dimensions: Dia 46 x 167 H cm
Seller Ref. No.: 229103