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About the Item
Rare piece designed by Vilhelm Lauritzen in the late 1930s or early 1940s. Made for DSB (De Danske Statsbaner, ‘The Danish Railway Network'(trans.) hence the name ‘Konduktrlampe’ (‘Train Conductor’ (trans). Its was manufactured by Louis Poulsen. This is the earliest model with the old Bakelit Switch to the base. The color is original to the piece and it is left un-restored and appears a bit ‘Shappy’ and rough. There are no dents but a few spots/small areas here and there where the steel are exposed. Measurements: H 20 inches (50 cm).Creator: Vilhelm Lauritzen (Designer)Dimensions: Height: 20 in (50.8 cm)Diameter: 6 in (15.24 cm)Style: Bauhaus (Of the Period)Materials and Techniques: SteelPlace of Origin: DenmarkPeriod: 1930-1939Date of Manufacture: Late 1930s-Early 1940sCondition: FairWear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Original condition. No dents but ware, spots and patina consistent with its age.Seller Location: Esbjerg, DKReference Number: 1stDibs: LU1782218668682Shop All Vilhelm Lauritzen
Vilhelm Lauritzen
One of the most significant architects in Denmarks history and a pioneer of Danish functionalism in Scandinavian, mid-century modern furniture, Vilhelm Lauritzen maintained a lifelong belief that design is an art for the people.
Born in the town of Slagelse in 1894, Lauritzen had an early interest in architecture and design. He graduated from the Sor Akademi in 1912 and the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in 1922. That year, Lauritzen founded the Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects studio.
Travel to Spain, Greece and throughout Central Europe influenced his architectural work. His first major project was in 1928, when he designed the Daells Department Store in Copenhagen. Subsequent notable design projects included the Nrrebro Theater in 1931, the Radiohuset building in 1936 and Copenhagen Airports first terminal in 1939, inspired by Swiss-born architect Le Corbusier.
Although architecture was among Lauritzens chief passions he was also an avid lepidopterist he was keenly interested in the furnishings of his projects, designing everything from chairs and settees to door handles and ashtrays. His influential creations include the iconic VL 38 Radiohus table and the VL 45 Radiohus pendant light a powerful downward light that provides a gentle illumination through handblown, white opal glass. Both were designed for Danish furniture manufacturer Louis Poulsen in collaboration with Danish designer Finn Juhl. Vilhelm Lauritzens lamps and wall sconces, which have obliquely angled lamp heads, were likewise designed in partnership with Poulsen for the Radiohuset building in the 1930s.
Lauritzen remained active in his studio until 1969, overseeing numerous architecture projects in the 1950s, such as the Shellhuset building, Folkets Hus known today as the VEGA concert hall and the Danish Embassy in Washington, DC.
Lauritzen died in 1984. His legacy lives on with Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects still operating in Copenhagens Nordhavn district, and his elegant lamps remain in production by Louis Poulsen.
On 1stDibs, discover a range of vintage Vilhelm Lauritzen lighting, seating, tables and more.
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