12 Iconic Louis Poulsen Lamps to Feature in Sotheby’s Upcoming Important Design Auction
Designed by the late Poul Henningsen.
Louis Poulsen has partnered up with Sotheby’s for the first time to present 12 rare lamps, designed by the late Danish designer, Poul Henningsen in the auction house’s upcoming Important Design sale.
Poul Henningsen revolutionized modern lighting with his PH lamp series, which was first exhibited at the Paris International Exhibition of Decorative Arts in 1925. His innovative approach to light diffusion, which reduced glare and created a warmer ambiance, set new standards in functional and aesthetic lighting, influencing global design principles.
Henningsen’s designs, favored by architects like Ludvig Mies van der Rohe, Alvar Aalto and Le Corbusier, remain iconic, with pieces such as the PH Artichoke and PH5 continuing to be celebrated for their timeless elegance and profound impact on Scandinavian design.
The sale will include the PH Spiral Pendant, ceiling light featuring green shade tops and gold-enameled undersides. Dated from around 1927, the piece is estimated at $100,000 – $150,000 USD. Characterized for its red, yellow and white palette, complete with a dramatic aluminum shade structure, ”The House of The Day After Tomorrow” Artichoke Pendant is predicted to fetch between $30,000 – $50,000 USD.
Another notable highlight is the 2/2 Piano Lamp with an estimation of $20,000 – $30,000 USD. First introduced to the Louis Poulsen collection from 1931 -1937, the lamp was originally designed to be used on pianos and is recognized for its adjustability as well as distinct curved arm.
The Important Design sale will take place at Sotheby’s New York location on December 12. The pieces will also be open for public viewing from December 7 to 11.
