Esben Klint Pair of Oak 301/27 Table Lamps

A pair of oak & brass table lamps, designed by Esben Klint for Le Klint, Denmark, circa 1950.

The Model 301/27 is an exceptionally elegant example of Danish Modernism, and a design that speaks to why Denmark's particular response to Modernity, often described as more humane, proved so successful.

In contrast to the harder, more industrial character of early-C20th Modernism, this lamp, like much post-war Danish design, is warm, flowing and, crucially, contains something of the familiar. In this respect, the design also reveals Esben as a disciple of his father, the celebrated architect & professor Kaare Klint. Like his father, Esben drew upon historically successful furniture types and principles of classical design. Although fresh, unfussy and distinctly modern, the Model 301/27 is also rooted in tradition and possess a feeling of familiarity.

Turned from beautifully grained solid oak, each lamp features a broad circular base with a delicate lip. From here rises a slender, gently tapered stem. The continuous silhouette is punctuated by two incised collars, reminiscent of the nodes on bamboo, before transitioning to the stepped brass lighting components.

The subtle detailing on an otherwise restrained form is characteristic of the Klint approach: decoration is incorporated into the construction and silhouette rather than applied to it. As a result, the simplicity of the design allows the natural grain and warm colour of the oak to become an important part of the object.

Sympathetically restored and presented as a matching pair, the lamps are particularly impressive together. Their generous scale and repetition of the two sculptural forms gives them an architectural quality. Available with or without shades.