When it comes to home decor, an atomic lamp is a term used to define interestingly shaped lamps from the 1950s or the mid-century design period. This is a time when the atomic bomb was in the news and the telltale mushroom cloud was the inspiration for the shape of these lamps. It’s a loose description of the new shapes that were being seen in lighting in this era. Shop a collection of atomic lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is an atomic lamp?

The atomic lamp was a favorite mid-century modern design. The lamp took on characteristics of the molecular composition of the atom, and were found in a variety of shapes, materials and colors. You’ll find a variety of atomic lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Were pearls popular in the 1950s?

Yes. While the gem has always been a mainstay in jewelry, there was a boom in demand for pearl pieces in the 1950s. The style at the time was black-and-white-chic, and pearls were an excellent accompaniment to pieces like the classic little black dress. Shop a collection of expertly vetted pearl jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is 1950s furniture called?

1950s furniture is called vintage furniture. Some pieces produced during this period may be considered mid-century modern based on their characteristics. Mid-century modern design refers to the variety of modernism that rose to prominence in the 1940s and ’50s. It displays many of the characteristics of the earlier versions of modernism, including simple forms and a focus on functionality. Other traits common in mid-century modern furniture include unadorned silhouettes, clean lines and mixed materials, emphasizing wood, wool, steel and plastic. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of 1950s furniture.

What watches were popular in 1950s?

Some popular watches for men during the 1950s were the Rolex Submariner, the Enicar Sherpa Dive, the Breitling Navitimer, Omega, Constellation and the Rolex GMT-Master. Rolex, Timex, Orvin, Tower and Elgin were among the top watchmakers for women during the decade. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary watches.

What was the clothing style in the 1950s?

The clothing style in the 1950s was well tailored and classic. For women, dresses with padded busts, cinched waists and hips, and full circle skirts were popular, and the collared button-up shirt dress came into fashion during the decade. Men tended to wear suits in neutral gray, dark blue and brown colors made out of easy-to-care-for synthetic fabrics. Straight-cut double-breasted blazers were commonly worn for casual occasions. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of vintage clothing from the 1950s.

What diamond cuts were popular in the 1950s?

In the 1950s, several diamond cuts were popular. They included the brilliant round cut, the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. Rings that featured a large central stone flanked by smaller baguettes were also trendy during the decade. Find a collection of vintage diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.

How much was a Chanel bag in the 1950s?

In the 1950s, a Chanel bag was priced between $200 and $300. The iconic Chanel 2.55 bag cost $220 when first introduced in February 1955. Accounting for inflation, that works out to around $2,536 in today's money. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Chanel bags from some of the world's top boutiques.

What were the popular diamond cuts in the 1950s?

There were a few popular diamond cuts in the 1950s. One was the brilliant round cut, which is still common today due to its simple shape and prominent sparkle. Other favorite cuts of the decade included the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of engagement rings.

What is the 1950s furniture style called?

The best-known 1950s furniture style is called mid-century modern. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three phrases that describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style emerged primarily in the years following World War II through creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Mid-century modern designers combined natural and human-made materials, such as teak, rosewood and oak woods as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. Some well-known mid-century modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of mid-century modern furniture.

Which artist became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s?

Frank Stella is the artist who became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These works featured bands of black paint separated by thin, precise stripes of bare canvas. At a time when contemporary painting was all about wild gestures, thick paint and formal abandon, the “Black Paintings” created a sensation. Explore a range of Frank Stella art on 1stDibs.

1950s Atomic Lamp

Mcm Table Lamps

Mcm Lighting

Atomic Modern

Mid Century Lighting Atomic

Mid Century Modern Fiberglass Lamp

Atomic Age Furniture

Midcentury Palm Lamp

Mcm Atomic

1950s Atomic Age Rare Table Lamp All Original Condition

$460Sale Price|20% Off

H 32 in Dm 15 in

1950s Atomic Age Rare Table Lamp All Original Condition

By Laurel Lamp Company

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful brass and black painted metal, American Mid-Century Modern table lamp with its original

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

1950s Belgium Atomic lamp

$607

H 17.72 in W 9.06 in D 9.06 in

1950s Belgium Atomic lamp

Located in London, Lambeth

Beautiful small table lamp in an Atomic style in brass with a small chain switch all original

Category

Mid-20th Century Belgian Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Atomic Age Design Floor Lamp, Belgium 1950's

$776Sale Price|20% Off

H 64.97 in W 19.69 in D 19.69 in

Atomic Age Design Floor Lamp, Belgium 1950's

Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN

Vintage Midcentury Modern Belgian Design Atomic Age Floor Lamp, made in Belgium 1950's. Black

Category

Vintage 1950s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Red Atomic Tripod Table Lamp 1950's Italy

$866Sale Price|20% Off

H 9.06 in Dm 4.73 in

Red Atomic Tripod Table Lamp 1950's Italy

Located in Lisboa, PT

A playful and rare find from 1950s Italy, this red atomic tripod table lamp embodies the exuberant

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Space Age Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Pair of Atomic Tripod Table Lamps 1950's Italy

$1,676Sale Price|20% Off

H 9.06 in Dm 4.73 in

Pair of Atomic Tripod Table Lamps 1950's Italy

Located in Lisboa, PT

Charming pair of Atomic tripod table lamps, Italy, 1950s. These sculptural miniatures of mid

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Space Age Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Rare Mid Century Modern Majestic Floor Lamp. MCM Atomic 1950s Fiberglass Shades

$3,410

H 68 in W 25 in D 15 in

Rare Mid Century Modern Majestic Floor Lamp. MCM Atomic 1950s Fiberglass Shades

By Majestic Lamp Company

Located in Peoria, AZ

ICONIC BLACK & GOLD! DUAL FIBERGLASS SHADE FLOOR LAMP HANDWORKED BRASS PIPE & WOOD ACCENTS

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

WOW! Rembrandt Lamp! Iconic Mid Century Modern Atomic Blender Design! MCM 1950s

$1,975

H 29 in W 18 in D 18 in

WOW! Rembrandt Lamp! Iconic Mid Century Modern Atomic Blender Design! MCM 1950s

By Rembrandt Lamp Company

Located in Peoria, AZ

RARE MARVELOUS MODERNISM! REMBRANDT "ATOMIC BLENDER" MID CENTURY MODERN TABLE LAMP! MONUMENTAL

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Enamel

Rare Rembrandt Mid Century Modern Table Lamp! Atomic Ranch Decor! MCM 1950s

$1,839Sale Price|20% Off

H 29 in W 18 in D 18 in

Rare Rembrandt Mid Century Modern Table Lamp! Atomic Ranch Decor! MCM 1950s

By Rembrandt Lamp Company

Located in Peoria, AZ

RARE MARVELOUS MODERNISM! REMBRANDT MID CENTURY MODERN TABLE LAMP! ATOMIC AWESOME! DIMENSIONS

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Enamel

Minty! Space Age Aluminum & Brass Mid Century Modern Table Lamp! 1950s Atomic

$1,210

H 25 in W 18 in D 18 in

Minty! Space Age Aluminum & Brass Mid Century Modern Table Lamp! 1950s Atomic

By Laurel Lamp Company

Located in Peoria, AZ

Superb! Mid Century Modern Table Lamp! Aluminum and Brass Incredible Brushed Brass! Very Fine

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Mid Century Majestic Table Lamp! Atomic MCM Luxcraft Brass 1950s Incredibly Rare

$2,400Sale Price|20% Off

H 28 in W 18 in D 18 in

Mid Century Majestic Table Lamp! Atomic MCM Luxcraft Brass 1950s Incredibly Rare

By Majestic Lamp Company

Located in Peoria, AZ

MAJESTIC MID CENTURY TABLE LAMP STUNNING! PERFORATED SCREENS WOOD & BRASS EXQUISITE MID CENTURY

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Crystal, Metal, Brass

1950's Atomic Age Patinated Brass Torchiere Table Lamp Pierced Cone Shade

$875

H 11.5 in Dm 6.25 in

1950's Atomic Age Patinated Brass Torchiere Table Lamp Pierced Cone Shade

By Lightolier

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful and rare patinated brass 3-way torchiere table lamp, circa 1950's with pierced perforated

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Midcentury Modern Scandinavian Design "Atomic" Low Floor Lamp, Denmark 1950's

$2,059

H 27.56 in W 11.03 in D 11.03 in

Midcentury Modern Scandinavian Design "Atomic" Low Floor Lamp, Denmark 1950's

Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN

Vintage Midcentury Modern Scandinavian Design "Atomic" Low Floor Lamp. Made in Denmark, 1950's

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Copper

Atomic 1950s Table Lamp by ASEA, Sweden

$678

H 14.97 in Dm 3.75 in

Atomic 1950s Table Lamp by ASEA, Sweden

By ASEA

Located in Esbjerg, DK

Early 1950s table lamp with fully adjustable partially perforated Aluminium shade. The concentric

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass, Aluminum

1950s Atomic Starburst Sphere Table Lamp Tripod Pedestal

$850

H 25.5 in Dm 11 in

1950s Atomic Starburst Sphere Table Lamp Tripod Pedestal

Located in Chula Vista, CA

Table Lamp Atomic age ceramic starburst globe table lamp on metal base with bronze feet 1950s

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Bronze

Pair of 1950s Atomic Brass or Metal Lamps

$490 / set

H 22.5 in Dm 6 in

Pair of 1950s Atomic Brass or Metal Lamps

Located in Tarrytown, NY

Pair of 1950s atomic brass lamps.

Category

Vintage 1950s Table Lamps

Atomic Mid Century Table Lamp by Lightolier att. to Thurston c. 1950/ 60's

$695

H 24 in W 10.5 in D 9 in

Atomic Mid Century Table Lamp by Lightolier att. to Thurston c. 1950/ 60's

By Gerald Thurston, Lightolier

Located in New York, NY

Architectural Mid Century, Atomic, Space Age jack form table lamp, by Lightolier, design attributed

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Italian Atomic Table Lamp with Brass Accents, 1950s

$279Sale Price|44% Off

H 15.75 in Dm 7.09 in

Italian Atomic Table Lamp with Brass Accents, 1950s

Located in Esbjerg, DK

Italian 1950s table light composed of a lacquered wooden bas with handprinted atomic decor, a brass

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Mid-century Atomic 2-Arm Lamp, Fiberglass Shades

$695

H 25.5 in W 24 in D 8.5 in

1950s Mid-century Atomic 2-Arm Lamp, Fiberglass Shades

Located in Miami, FL

1950s Mid-century Atomic 2-Arm Lamp, Fiberglass Shades 1950s Mid-Century Modern Atomic double arm

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Table Lamp Pair

$940 / set

H 23 in Dm 6.5 in

1950s Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Table Lamp Pair

Located in Chula Vista, CA

1950s Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Table Lamp Pair 15 h at shortest 23.25 at tallest to socket

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

1950s Georg Gin Atomic Table Lamp Geometric Wood Design

$950

H 18.5 in W 12 in D 7 in

1950s Georg Gin Atomic Table Lamp Geometric Wood Design

By Georg Gin

Located in Chula Vista, CA

1950s Atomic Wood Table Lamp Geometric Triangular Design by Georg Gin 18.5 tall x 12 w x 7 d

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Wood

Mid century brass tripod table lamp, 1950s, Atomic age

$4,119

H 27.56 in Dm 19.69 in

Mid century brass tripod table lamp, 1950s, Atomic age

Located in Hägersten, SE

Large and unusual tripod table lamp. Made during the 1950s from solid polished brass with very high

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Mid Century Atomic Age Ribbed Ceramic & Brass Table Lamp

$830

H 27 in Dm 7.5 in

1950s Mid Century Atomic Age Ribbed Ceramic & Brass Table Lamp

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful 1950s classic mid century modern desk table lamp with brass accents and a beautiful

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Atomic Tripod Floor Lamp in Teak with Balloon Shade

$2,274

H 45.25 in W 16 in D 16 in

1950s Atomic Tripod Floor Lamp in Teak with Balloon Shade

Located in Berkeley, CA

Origin: Denmark Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Unknown Era: 1950s Materials: Teak

Category

20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Teak

Atom Lamp by Sam Rush steel and brass tribute to the 1950's Atomic Whirl pattern

$3,037

H 68.12 in W 16.54 in D 9.85 in

Atom Lamp by Sam Rush steel and brass tribute to the 1950's Atomic Whirl pattern

By Sam Rush

Located in Bristol, GB

The origin of this design has been slightly convoluted. The base and body of the lamp was inspired

Category

2010s British Other Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Stainless Steel

Haeger 1950s Abstract Pink Pottery Mid Century Modern Atomic Table Lamp

$1,200Sale Price|20% Off

H 27 in W 18 in D 18 in

Haeger 1950s Abstract Pink Pottery Mid Century Modern Atomic Table Lamp

By Haeger

Located in Peoria, AZ

EXQUISITE! HAEGER ABSTRACT, ATOMIC AGE PINK POTTERY TABLE LAMP! VERY RARE! CLEAN DESIGN

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Lightolier Table Lamp Black Gerald Thurston Atomic Decor Fiberglass MCM 1950s

$2,900

H 18 in W 15 in D 15 in

Lightolier Table Lamp Black Gerald Thurston Atomic Decor Fiberglass MCM 1950s

By Gerald Thurston

Located in Peoria, AZ

, penned by Gerald Thurston the in-house designer for Lightolier Lamp Company in the 1940s and 1950s, are

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Glorious MId Century Danish Modern Atomic Fiberglass Shade Table Lamp 1950s

$1,024Sale Price|20% Off

H 14 in W 12 in D 12 in

Glorious MId Century Danish Modern Atomic Fiberglass Shade Table Lamp 1950s

By Hansen Lighting Co., Frederic Weinberg

Located in Peoria, AZ

Sweet! Mid Century Modern Fiberglass Tripod Table / Accent Lamp! Rare design! This is a

Category

Mid-20th Century Table Lamps

Materials

Fiberglass, Wood

Glorious Mid Century Modern Atomic Table Lamp. Black White 24kt Gold 1950s

$719Sale Price|34% Off

H 31 in W 15 in D 15 in

Glorious Mid Century Modern Atomic Table Lamp. Black White 24kt Gold 1950s

By Frederic Weinberg

Located in Peoria, AZ

WoW! 1955 Porcelain Mid Century Modern Atomic Modern Table Lamp Black White and Gold Squiggle

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Tripod Table Lamp! Atomic Heifetz Era 1950s Inverted Shade

$2,500

H 26 in W 19 in D 19 in

Mid Century Modern Tripod Table Lamp! Atomic Heifetz Era 1950s Inverted Shade

By Heifetz

Located in Peoria, AZ

ICONIC POPULUXE! MID CENTURY MODERN WROUGHT IRON METAL TRIPOD / HAIRPIN TABLE LAMP! ATOMIC

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Atomic Brass Rocket Table Lamp 1950s Sputnik Torpedo Shape

$1,360Sale Price|20% Off

H 26 in W 16 in D 16 in

Mid Century Modern Atomic Brass Rocket Table Lamp 1950s Sputnik Torpedo Shape

By General Lighting

Located in Peoria, AZ

Stunning! Mid Century Modern Brass Accented Rocket Ship Style Table Lamp! Here is a marvelous

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Italian Mid Century Brass & Wood 'Atomic' Lamp

$1,160Sale Price|20% Off

H 19 in W 15 in D 6 in

Italian Mid Century Brass & Wood 'Atomic' Lamp

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Italian mid century brass & wood 'Atomic' lamp Italy, 1950s A unique mid-century lamp, the lamp

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Glorious MId Century Modern Atomic Table Lamp. Mint Green Fiberglass Shade 1950s

$2,040Sale Price|20% Off

H 31 in W 15 in D 15 in

Glorious MId Century Modern Atomic Table Lamp. Mint Green Fiberglass Shade 1950s

By Frederic Weinberg

Located in Peoria, AZ

WoW! 1955 Porcelain & Fiberglass Mid Century Modern Atomic/Sputnik Table Lamp Original

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Fiberglass Cobra Desk Lamp Greta Grossman Atomic Era 1950s

$1,815

H 23 in W 15 in D 15 in

Mid Century Modern Fiberglass Cobra Desk Lamp Greta Grossman Atomic Era 1950s

By Greta Magnusson Grossman

Located in Peoria, AZ

Original 1950 Greta Grossman Cobra Lamp Fiberglass Shade Rare Prototype or Pre-patent Competitor

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

1950s Authentic Mid-Century Modern Double Shade Table Lamp by Majestic Lamp Comp

$5,200

H 27 in W 36 in D 14 in

1950s Authentic Mid-Century Modern Double Shade Table Lamp by Majestic Lamp Comp

By Majestic Lamp Company

Located in Monrovia, CA

Lamp Co. Beautiful Atomic 1950s double shade table lamp by Majestic Lamp Company is in excellent

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Heifetz Birch Wood Black Steel Mid Century Danish Modern Atomic Table Lamp

$3,599Sale Price|20% Off

H 25 in W 14 in D 14 in

1950s Heifetz Birch Wood Black Steel Mid Century Danish Modern Atomic Table Lamp

By Yasha Heifetz, Heifetz

Located in Peoria, AZ

EXQUISITE! HEIFETZ ABSTRACT, MODERN SCULPTED STEEL & BIRCH TABLE LAMP! VERY RARE! CLEAN ALL

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Pair! Mid Century Danish Modern Plaster Lamps Atomic UFO Blue Orange 1950s MCM

$5,850Sale Price / set|35% Off

H 26 in W 16 in D 16 in

Pair! Mid Century Danish Modern Plaster Lamps Atomic UFO Blue Orange 1950s MCM

By Guido Gambone

Located in Peoria, AZ

PREPARE FOR THE LANDING! DANISH MODERN MID CENTURY UFO LAMPS GOLD FLECKS IN PLASTER! ATOMIC

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Plaster, Wood

Kurt Versen Gooseneck Table Desk Lamp! Mid Century Modern Red 1950s Atomic Decor

$3,500

H 16 in W 12 in D 12 in

Kurt Versen Gooseneck Table Desk Lamp! Mid Century Modern Red 1950s Atomic Decor

By Kurt Versen

Located in Peoria, AZ

KURT VERSEN GOOSE NECK DESK LAMP! ICONIC! MID CENTURY DESIGN AT ITS FINEST! GORGEOUS RED ENAMEL

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Aluminum

Knoll Clay Michie Swing Arm Saucer Desk Lamp, 1950s Mid Century Atomic MCM Light

$3,900

H 17 in W 17 in D 17 in

Knoll Clay Michie Swing Arm Saucer Desk Lamp, 1950s Mid Century Atomic MCM Light

By Clay Michie

Located in Peoria, AZ

" desk lamp in the fifties! It cuts a classic profile! This example still has an original 1950s bulb

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Knoll Clay Michie Swing Arm Saucer Desk Lamp, 1950s Mid Century Atomic MCM Decor

$5,500

H 17 in W 17 in D 17 in

Knoll Clay Michie Swing Arm Saucer Desk Lamp, 1950s Mid Century Atomic MCM Decor

By Clay Michie

Located in Peoria, AZ

" desk lamp in the fifties! It cuts a classic profile! This example still has an original 1950s bulb

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Recent Sales

Atomic Age Adjustable Mid-Century Modern Majestic Lamp 1950s

Unavailable

H 31 in W 27 in D 11 in

Atomic Age Adjustable Mid-Century Modern Majestic Lamp 1950s

By Majestic Lamp Company

Located in Surprise, AZ

Atomic Age Majestic Adjustable Lamp with Two Original Fiberglass Shades. This wonderful lamp was

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass, Enamel

Mid-Century Atomic Age Lamp by Daydream, 1950s

Unavailable

H 20.48 in W 9.06 in D 9.06 in

Mid-Century Atomic Age Lamp by Daydream, 1950s

By Daydream Production

Located in Melbourne, AU

Australian Mid-Century desk lamp by 'Daydream', 1950s. A renowned maker of Australian lighting from

Category

Vintage 1950s Australian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Rare 1950's Atomic Lamp, Germany

Sold

H 17 in W 12 in D 12 in

Rare 1950's Atomic Lamp, Germany

Located in Palm Springs, CA

This wire frame lamp with hairpin legs is wound with red and yellow nylon cord. When used with a

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Pair of 1950s Atomic Lamps, Raymond Loewy Sputnik Design

Sold

H 19.5 in Dm 6 in

Pair of 1950s Atomic Lamps, Raymond Loewy Sputnik Design

By Raymond Loewy

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Forester in the 1950s, this design being among them. An example is pictured with this listing. These lamps

Category

Vintage 1950s American Table Lamps

1950's Atomic Age Rare Table Desk Lamp Iron Base on Glass Shade and Copper Balls

Sold

H 10.5 in Dm 12 in

1950's Atomic Age Rare Table Desk Lamp Iron Base on Glass Shade and Copper Balls

By Laurel Lamp Company

Located in San Diego, CA

, freshly rewired with a cloth cord, this lamp is unique represents an era on Atomic changes.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Copper, Iron

Great design 1950's Atomic age lamp brass base

Sold

H 29.75 in Dm 6 in

Great design 1950's Atomic age lamp brass base

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A great looking atomic age lamp that has a great 1950's look. It has been re-wired and redone with

Category

Vintage 1950s American Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Lunel Atomic Age Inspired Floor Lamp France 1950's

Sold

H 72.84 in Dm 16.54 in

Lunel Atomic Age Inspired Floor Lamp France 1950's

Located in bergen op zoom, NL

A French 1950's floor lamp by Lunel 5 rocket shaped arms with glass diffusers and a planter in the

Category

Vintage 1950s French Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Atomic Tripod Lamp

Sold

H 14 in Dm 11 in L 14 in

1950s Atomic Tripod Lamp

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A small midcentury lamp with swiveling saucer light deflector. Tripod base is solid brass. The lamp

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Robert Sonneman Atomic Lamp, 1950s

Sold

H 30 in Dm 17 in

Robert Sonneman Atomic Lamp, 1950s

By Robert Sonneman

Located in Southampton, NJ

Mid-Century Modern chrome atomic articulating lamp by Robert Sonneman. Switch allows for single

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Chrome

Space Age 'ATOMIC' Rocket Ceramic Lamp Base, France, 1950's

Sold

H 8.67 in W 5.91 in D 5.91 in

Space Age 'ATOMIC' Rocket Ceramic Lamp Base, France, 1950's

Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN

Vintage space age 'ATOMIC' Rocket Ceramic lamp base, made in France 1950's. Ceramic black and

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

Pair of 1950s Atomic Sputnik Lamps

Sold

H 17.75 in Dm 6.5 in

Pair of 1950s Atomic Sputnik Lamps

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A matching pair of atomic style lamps from the early 1950s. The frosted glass shades have a waffle

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Steel

1950's American Mid Century Gooseneck Double Head Atomic Age Desk Lamp

Sold

H 21 in W 16 in D 7 in

1950's American Mid Century Gooseneck Double Head Atomic Age Desk Lamp

By Greta Magnusson Grossman

Located in San Diego, CA

Double head enameled finish gooseneck table/desk lamp, circa 1950's great colors very clean

Category

20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Vintage Satco Robot Lamp - Atomic Space Age Toy Design, 1950's

Sold

H 9.85 in W 4.73 in D 4.34 in

Vintage Satco Robot Lamp - Atomic Space Age Toy Design, 1950's

Located in Lisboa, PT

Vintage Satco Robot Lamp – Atomic Space Age Toy Design, c.1950s–60s An iconic piece of mid-century

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Chrome

1950s Unique Atomic Age Tall Table Lamp

Sold

H 27 in Dm 9 in

1950s Unique Atomic Age Tall Table Lamp

By James Mont

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful table lamp with butterflies pattern printed in a plastic shade, with brass rings and

Category

20th Century American Hollywood Regency Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Mid-Century Modern Atomic Saucer Desk Lamp

Sold

H 13 in W 15.5 in D 15.5 in

1950s Mid-Century Modern Atomic Saucer Desk Lamp

Located in Esperance, NY

1950s Mid-Century Modern atomic saucer desk lamp.

Category

Vintage 1950s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Vintage 1950s Atomic Ceramic Lamp with Fiberglass Shade

Sold

H 30 in Dm 20 in

Vintage 1950s Atomic Ceramic Lamp with Fiberglass Shade

Located in Red Lion, PA

Mid Cenury Modern 1950s Atomic Pink Table Lamp Ceramic with original Fiberglass shade Pink base

Category

Vintage 1950s Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic, Fiberglass

Midcentury Atomic Wooden Table Lamps by Georg Gin, 1950s

Sold

H 14 in W 8 in D 6 in

Midcentury Atomic Wooden Table Lamps by Georg Gin, 1950s

By Georg Gin

Located in Chula Vista, CA

Midcentury atomic wooden table lamps by Georg Gin. U.S.A, 1950s. Marked "Georg Gin" in the

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Wood

Iconic 1950's Atomic Age Ceramic Baluster-Form Lamp with Abstract Decoration

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H 18 in Dm 9 in

Iconic 1950's Atomic Age Ceramic Baluster-Form Lamp with Abstract Decoration

Located in San Francisco, CA

Of stylized baluster form with long tapering neck above a compressed body tapering at the base; all raised on an openwork brass base with square plinth; height 18" (top of ceramic) 2...

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

1950s Space Atomic Age Table Lamp Brass and Wood

Sold

H 18 in Dm 7 in

1950s Space Atomic Age Table Lamp Brass and Wood

Located in Miami, FL

REDUCED FROM $400....With a stylized mushroom cloud in brass, this 1950s table lamp features a

Category

Mid-20th Century American Space Age Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Freeform Atomic Ceramic Table Lamp with Original Fiberglass Lampshade

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H 25.5 in Dm 10 in

1950s Freeform Atomic Ceramic Table Lamp with Original Fiberglass Lampshade

Located in San Diego, CA

A hard to find green ceramic table desk lamp. Rewired and in excellent condition with its original

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic, Fiberglass

Mid century atomic double bulb table lamp, late 1950s

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H 20.75 in W 17 in D 10 in

Mid century atomic double bulb table lamp, late 1950s

Located in View Park, CA

A mid century modern desk lamp, circa late 1950s. Atomic but also organic modern sensibilities

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Chrome

Pair French Atomic Table Lamps

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H 22.5 in Dm 10 in

Pair French Atomic Table Lamps

Located in Houston, TX

Chic 1950s French atomic style lamps with 10" diameter linen shades. Each lamp has dual sockets.

Category

20th Century French Art Deco Table Lamps

Materials

Steel

1950s American Midcentury Gooseneck Double Head Atomic Age Brass Desk Lamp

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H 22 in W 16 in D 7 in

1950s American Midcentury Gooseneck Double Head Atomic Age Brass Desk Lamp

By Greta Magnusson Grossman

Located in San Diego, CA

Double head patinated brass finish gooseneck table/desk lamp, circa 1950s great condition very

Category

20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Ceramic and Brass Table Lamp with Atomic Details and Fibreglass Shade, 1950s

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H 23.63 in Dm 17.72 in

Ceramic and Brass Table Lamp with Atomic Details and Fibreglass Shade, 1950s

Located in London, GB

A modernist ceramic table lamp with atomic details, and original fibreglass shade. Probably from

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Sophisticated Atomic Table Lamps Black Mahogany Fine Brass Rods Style Raak 1950s

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H 17.5 in Dm 14 in

Sophisticated Atomic Table Lamps Black Mahogany Fine Brass Rods Style Raak 1950s

By Gerald Thurston, RAAK

Located in Chula Vista, CA

Delightful midcentury sputnik atomic table lamps. Sculptural Mahogany wood with black lacquer

Category

Vintage 1950s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Mid-Century Modern Rare Atomic Age Floor Lamp in Brass and Ceramic

Sold

H 51 in Dm 12 in

1950s Mid-Century Modern Rare Atomic Age Floor Lamp in Brass and Ceramic

By Mathieu Matégot

Located in San Diego, CA

A unique and rare floor lamp circa 1950s, in polished brass with a ceramic ball in the base we have

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Atomic Age Pair of Mid-Century Ceramic Table Lamps on Walnut Bases

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H 22 in Dm 8 in

1950s Atomic Age Pair of Mid-Century Ceramic Table Lamps on Walnut Bases

Located in San Diego, CA

Great set of Danish modern table lamps sitting in walnut bases, with brass necks, in perfect

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic, Walnut

Pair Mid Century Modern Tripod Lamps Lightolier Gerald Thurston Atomic 1950s

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H 24 in W 18 in D 18 in

Pair Mid Century Modern Tripod Lamps Lightolier Gerald Thurston Atomic 1950s

By Gerald Thurston

Located in Peoria, AZ

gorgeous lamps will make a sublime addition to your NY penthouse, Palm Springs atomic modern or West Palm

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid Century Modern Pink Tension Pole Lamp. Atomic 1950s Floor Brass Stiffel

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H 100 in W 15 in D 15 in

Mid Century Modern Pink Tension Pole Lamp. Atomic 1950s Floor Brass Stiffel

By Stiffel

Located in Peoria, AZ

AMAZING! ATOMIC SPACE AGE MID CENTURY MODERN TENSION POLE LAMP! Pink enamel, Brass & Perspex

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Black Screen Tension Pole Lamp. Atomic 1950s Floor Lightolier

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H 100 in W 15 in D 15 in

Mid Century Modern Black Screen Tension Pole Lamp. Atomic 1950s Floor Lightolier

By Lightolier

Located in Peoria, AZ

ICONIC! ATOMIC AGE MID CENTURY MODERN TRI-COLOR TENSION POLE LAMP! EPIC "SCREEN CONE" DESIGN

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Arteluce Articulating Swing Arm Saucer Italian Brass Desk Lamp 1950s MCM Atomic

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H 25 in W 21 in D 15 in

Arteluce Articulating Swing Arm Saucer Italian Brass Desk Lamp 1950s MCM Atomic

By Arteluce

Located in Peoria, AZ

ARTELUCE SAUCER SHADE ARTICULATING DESK/TABLE LAMP EXQUISITE ITALIAN STYLE! CIRCA 1953 SIMPLY

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Atomic Age Table Lamps in the Manner of Paul McCobb

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H 18 in Dm 8 in

Atomic Age Table Lamps in the Manner of Paul McCobb

Located in Bedford Hills, NY

Cool pair of 1950s atomic age table lamps, rewired.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

1950s Midcentury Atomic Age Brass Pendant Lamp

Sold

H 13 in Dm 9.5 in

1950s Midcentury Atomic Age Brass Pendant Lamp

By Paavo Tynell

Located in San Diego, CA

This is an amazing and unique pendant lamp in solid brass circa 1950s with perforated shade for a

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

The Best Atom Age Lamp Pair

Sold

H 26.5 in Dm 13 in

The Best Atom Age Lamp Pair

Located in Wilton, CT

A mint Conditin pair of 1950's Atomic Age brass lamps. Custom Shades.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Vintage Atomic Desk in Walnut with Floating Cabinet & Lamp

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H 43.31 in W 44.89 in D 22.05 in

1950s Vintage Atomic Desk in Walnut with Floating Cabinet & Lamp

By Heal's, Paul McCobb, Milo Baughman, Greta Magnusson Grossman

Located in Shepperton, Surrey

A 1950s atomic desk in walnut and beechwood, attributed to Christopher Heal for Heal & Son. The

Category

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

1950s Industrial Atomic Age Scissor Multidirectional Wall Lamp by Lightolier

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H 8 in W 31 in D 8 in

1950s Industrial Atomic Age Scissor Multidirectional Wall Lamp by Lightolier

By Gerald Thurston, Lightolier

Located in San Diego, CA

Great and hard-to-find wall mount scissor lamp, circa the 1950s. The shade is in perforated metal

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Rare 1950's Atomic Lamp, Germany

Sold

H 18 in W 10 in D 10 in

Rare 1950's Atomic Lamp, Germany

Located in Palm Springs, CA

This asymmetrical wire frame lamp with hairpin legs is wound with pink and black nylon cord. When

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Vintage Atomic Clover Lamp Company Floor Lamp in Original Coral Paint, c. 1950s

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H 47.5 in W 21 in D 21 in

Vintage Atomic Clover Lamp Company Floor Lamp in Original Coral Paint, c. 1950s

By Clover Lamp Company

Located in Deland, FL

. The lamp turns on with a foot switch at the base when turned on accentuates the atomic starburst

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950's Atomic Flying Saucer Lamp by Esther Lighting Co.

Sold

H 10.75 in Dm 7 in

1950's Atomic Flying Saucer Lamp by Esther Lighting Co.

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A petite atomic flying saucer accent lamp from Australia, made by the Esther Lighting Company

Category

Vintage 1950s Australian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Majestic Floor Lamp. Iron Brass Atomic 1950s Fiberglass Shade

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H 59 in W 18 in D 18 in

Mid Century Modern Majestic Floor Lamp. Iron Brass Atomic 1950s Fiberglass Shade

By Majestic Lamp Company

Located in Peoria, AZ

ICONIC BLACK & GOLD! MAJESTIC "Z" STYLE FLOOR LAMP WROUGHT IRON & BRASS ACCENTS FIBERGLASS SHADE

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

1950's American Mid-Century Gooseneck Double Head Atomic Age Desk Lamp

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H 22 in W 16 in D 7 in

1950's American Mid-Century Gooseneck Double Head Atomic Age Desk Lamp

By Greta Magnusson Grossman

Located in San Diego, CA

Double head brass finish gooseneck table/desk lamp, circa 1950's great condition very clean

Category

20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Rare Mid Century Modern Majestic Floor Lamp. Iron Atomic 1950s Dual Cone Shades

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H 71 in W 15 in D 15 in

Rare Mid Century Modern Majestic Floor Lamp. Iron Atomic 1950s Dual Cone Shades

By Majestic Lamp Company

Located in Peoria, AZ

all about style! Their ethos was attention drawing lamps will sell better in the new "modern" 1950s

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Pair of Period 1950s Atomic Age Lamps

Sold

H 25.25 in Dm 14 in

Pair of Period 1950s Atomic Age Lamps

Located in New Orleans, LA

Rare, atonic age, hand made pottery, starburst globe table lamps on metal base with disc feet

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum

Pair of 1950s Ceramic Tall Striped Atomic Age Table Lamps

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H 32.5 in Dm 8 in

Pair of 1950s Ceramic Tall Striped Atomic Age Table Lamps

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful pair of tall art pottery table lamps, circa 1950s. The lamps have been totally restored

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Atomic Age Pair of Ceramic and Metal Table Lamps

Sold

H 22.5 in Dm 6.5 in

1950s Atomic Age Pair of Ceramic and Metal Table Lamps

Located in San Diego, CA

Nice and unique pair of ceramic bases with metal accents table lamps, circa 1950s. No lampshades

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Pair of 1950s Mid-Century Modern Atomic Age Brass and Enamel Table Lamps

Sold

H 24 in Dm 15 in

Pair of 1950s Mid-Century Modern Atomic Age Brass and Enamel Table Lamps

Located in Montclair, NY

A lovely pair of midcentury tripod table lamp with brass vase shape body mounted on three legs and

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass, Iron

Pair of 1950s Atomic Age Conical-form Green Glazed Ribbed Lamps

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H 17 in Dm 5.5 in

Pair of 1950s Atomic Age Conical-form Green Glazed Ribbed Lamps

Located in San Francisco, CA

Great midcentury design, each ribbed conical-shaped ceramic lamp resting on a concave forest-green

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic, Wood

Mid Century Modern Yasha Heifetz Table Lamp! Space Age Atomic Era Tripod 1950s

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H 27 in W 18 in D 18 in

Mid Century Modern Yasha Heifetz Table Lamp! Space Age Atomic Era Tripod 1950s

By Heifetz

Located in Peoria, AZ

unrecognized! This is an Icon - one of the finest Atomic "Rocket Ship" lamps! The tripod base is made of

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

1950's Atomic Age Design Pendant Lantern Lamp

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H 15.36 in W 12.6 in D 12.6 in

1950's Atomic Age Design Pendant Lantern Lamp

Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN

Vintage 1950's Midcentury Modern Atomic Age Design pendant Lantern Hanging Lamp. Made in France

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Lanterns

Materials

Metal, Brass

1950s Atomic Pendant Lamp Perforated with Enamel Details

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H 18.12 in W 18.12 in D 18.12 in

1950s Atomic Pendant Lamp Perforated with Enamel Details

Located in Mexico City, CDMX

Circa 1950. We offer this atomic Pendant Light Hanging white Dish Perforated with fantastic enamel

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Enamel, Steel

1950s Rare Large Brass Pendant Lamp with Diffuser Atomic Age

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H 13 in Dm 24.5 in

1950s Rare Large Brass Pendant Lamp with Diffuser Atomic Age

By Paavo Tynell

Located in San Diego, CA

Incredible large brass pendant lamp with diffuser, circa 1950s in polished brass with perforated

Category

20th Century American Space Age Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

1950s Atomic Age Rare Copper and Glass Shade Pendant Lamp

Sold

H 14 in Dm 20 in

1950s Atomic Age Rare Copper and Glass Shade Pendant Lamp

Located in San Diego, CA

Incredible and unique milk glass pendant lamp, with copper attachment, needs to be hardwired, with

Category

20th Century American Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Copper

1950s Atomic Lamp by Gerald Thurston for Lightolier

Sold

H 40 in Dm 6.5 in

1950s Atomic Lamp by Gerald Thurston for Lightolier

By Gerald Thurston

Located in Pasadena, CA

This 1950s atomic lamp is constructed with three porcelain bulbs and brass rings, fittings and

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

1950s Atomic Lamp by Gerald Thurston for Lightolier

Sold

H 40 in Dm 6.5 in

1950s Atomic Lamp by Gerald Thurston for Lightolier

By Gerald Thurston

Located in Pasadena, CA

This 1950s atomic lamp is constructed with three porcelain bulbs and brass rings, fittings and

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern More Lighting

Materials

Brass

French 1950's Period Atomic Style Floor Lamp Table

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H 62 in W 20 in D 13.25 in

French 1950's Period Atomic Style Floor Lamp Table

Located in Southfield, MI

Whimsical early 1950's French floor lamp/table designed as an artist's palette. Lamp portion is

Category

Vintage 1950s French Floor Lamps

Materials

Fabric

1950s Atomic Tripod Floor Lamp

Sold

H 48.75 in W 14 in D 14 in

1950s Atomic Tripod Floor Lamp

Located in Pasadena, CA

1950's atomic tripod floor lamp with a cityscape graphic imagery on the cylindrical shade. The

Category

Vintage 1950s American Floor Lamps

Materials

Iron

Pair of Atomic Lamps, 1950s

Sold

H 33.27 in W 6.3 in D 6.3 in

Pair of Atomic Lamps, 1950s

Located in London, GB

A Pair of Atomic Lamps 1950s

Category

Vintage 1950s Table Lamps

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1950s Atomic Lamp For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic 1950s atomic lamp available at 1stDibs. A 1950s atomic lamp — often made from metal, brass and wood — can elevate any home. Your living room may not be complete without a 1950s atomic lamp — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century. A 1950s atomic lamp is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Mid-Century Modern, Hollywood Regency and Scandinavian Modern styles are sought with frequency. You’ll likely find more than one 1950s atomic lamp that is appealing in its simplicity, but Gerald Thurston, Lightolier and Majestic Lamp Company produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a 1950s Atomic Lamp?

Prices for a 1950s atomic lamp start at $300 and top out at $10,000 with the average selling for $1,250.

A Close Look at Mid-century Modern Furniture

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Emerged during the mid-20th century
Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
A heyday of innovation in postwar America
Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
Promotion of functionality

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

Charles and Ray Eames
Eero Saarinen
Milo Baughman
Florence Knoll
Harry Bertoia
Isamu Noguchi
George Nelson
Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by celebrated manufacturer Knoll, a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.

As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.

Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.

Finding the Right Lighting for You

The right table lamp, outwardly sculptural chandelier or understated wall pendant can work wonders for your home. While we’re indebted to thinkers like Thomas Edison for critically important advancements in lighting and electricity, we’re still finding new ways to customize illumination to fit our personal spaces all these years later. A wide range of antique and vintage lighting can be found on 1stDibs.

Today, lighting designers like the self-taught Bec Brittain have used the flexible structure of LEDs to craft glamorous solutions by working with what is typically considered a harsh lighting source. By integrating glass and mirrors, reflection can be used to soften the glow from LEDs and warmly welcome light into any space.

Although contemporary innovators continue to impress, some of the classics can’t be beat.

Just as gazing at the stars allows you to glimpse the universe’s past, vintage chandeliers like those designed by Gino Sarfatti and J. & L. Lobmeyr, for example, put on a similarly stunning show, each with a rich story to tell.

As dazzling as it is, the Arco lamp, on the other hand, prioritizes functionality — it’s wholly mobile, no drilling required. Designed in 1962 by architect-product designers Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, the piece takes the traditional form of a streetlamp and creates an elegant, arching floor fixture for at-home use.

There is no shortage of modernist lighting similarly prized by collectors and casual enthusiasts alike — there are Art Deco table lamps created in a universally appreciated style, the Tripod floor lamp by T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, Greta Magnusson Grossman's sleek and minimalist Grasshopper lamps and, of course, the wealth of mid-century experimental lighting that emerged from Italian artisans at Arredoluce, FLOS and many more are hallmarks in illumination innovation.

With decades of design evolution behind it, home lighting is no longer just practical. Crystalline shaping by designers like Gabriel Scott turns every lighting apparatus into a luxury accessory. A new installation doesn’t merely showcase a space; carefully chosen ceiling lights, table lamps and floor lamps can create a mood, spotlight a favorite piece or highlight your unique personality.

The sparkle that your space has been missing is waiting for you amid the growing collection of antique, vintage and contemporary lighting for sale on 1stDibs.

This Paavo Tynell Chandelier Is a Radiant Bouquet

The alluring pendant light exemplifies the designer’s winsome mid-career work.

Why Is Italy Such a Hotbed of Cool Design?

Patrizio Chiarparini of Brooklyn’s Duplex gallery sheds light on the lasting legacy of Italy’s postwar furniture boom.

See How New York City Designers Experiment on Their Own Homes

There are many lessons to be learned from the lofts, apartments and townhouses of architects and decorators in Manhattan and beyond.

Jeff Andrews Captures Old Hollywood Glamour in His Cinematic Spaces

Having created extravagant homes for reality TV’s biggest stars, the designer is stepping into the spotlight with his first book.

New Orleans’ Lee Ledbetter Makes Design Magic by Mixing Past and Present

The Louisiana-born and -bred architect talks to 1stdibs about the art of making timeless places that matter.

Desert Modern Designer Arthur Elrod Finally Gets His Day in the Sun

The Palm Springs interior decorator developed a mid-century style that defined the vacation homes of celebrities and other notables, including Bob Hope and Lucille Ball.