A set of modernist Frank Lloyd Wright inspired table lamps or bedside lamps, ca. 1920. These lamps come from a private collection and were once purchased in Amsterdam. They were bought as a wedding present at the time, possibly at Metz & Co, the famous Dutch Warehouse that was one of the first to sell modernist and 'De Stijl' furniture, art and lamps (Rietveld, Van der Leck e.o.).
These lamp have perfect proportions and the design is very pleasing to the eye. They would look great as accent pieces in either minimalist, eclectic or even modern interiors.
The design with the lightbulb enclosed in a wooden casing and the focus on horizontal lines and the cantilever is clearly inspired on Frank Lloyd Wright ;
The design shows the same principle that Frank Lloyd Wright used with his Taliesin lamp. The light bulb is enclosed by a wooden casing (the lampshade) which blocks the direct view of the light source. The top and bottom of the wooden shade are open, but covered with glass or wooden plates.
These lamps have three glass panes placed in slots (and they come out for cleaning).
Some characteristic of Frank Lloyd Wrights architecture - Arts & Crafts that developend into his well known 'Prairie' style:
The most defining characteristic is the emphasis on the horizontal rather than the vertical, with a strong geometry and assymetry, while restraining on use of applied ornamentarion.
Creator
Unknown
Manufacturer
Possibly made for Metz & Co
Design Period
1920 to 1929
Production Period
1920 to 1929
Country of Manufacture
Netherlands
Identifying Marks
Style
Modernist, Prairie School, 1920s
Detailed Condition
Good and stable. Glass can come out for cleaning (and is tightly fitted)
Restoration and Damage Details
Rewired. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have had small adjustments to make the glass panes fit perfectly again at straight angles which is important for the design. These adjustments and the rewiring has been done by a professional restorer.
