Mid-Century Modern Lamps & Lights

The mid-century modern movement was a time of great experimentation in lamp and lighting design. The first half of the movement was marked by table lamps that utilized ceramic and pottery bases in natural forms, topped by shades made of parchment or fiberglass. As the movement roared on, designs became more angular, space-age, and modern, utilizing materials like metal and wood. Chandeliers had names like “Sputnik,” “Atomic,” and “Miracle.”

Some of the best examples of mid-century modern lamps include the Arco lamp, the Artichoke lamp, a steel-plate contemporary riff on the traditional crystal chandelier designed by Danish designer Poul Henningsen for manufacturer Louis Poulsen, and the Sputnik chandelier, originally credited by Gino Sarfatti and one of the most replicated modern lamp designs of all time.

Quick Facts

• In 2013 a pair of two Italian silvered-metal Sputnik chandeliers sold for $4,191 at Christie’s in London
• Although many believe this common misconception, prolific mid-century modern design duo Ray and Charles Eames did not design any lighting fixtures or lamps
• George Nelson, while perhaps better known for his iconic mid-century clock designs for manufacturer Herman Miller, also designed a series of “bubble” hanging pendant lamps and sconces which have since become ubiquitous