Paul Haustein Lighting

This original WMF Ikora table lamp from the 1930s is an exceptional example of German Modernism, combining the clear formal language of Bauhaus with the softer, streamlined influences of Art Deco. The generously shaped, disc-like shade with its sculpturally stepped dome creates a sculptural silhouette and gives the lamp an almost futuristic presence that still appears timeless today. The minimalist design of the circular base, slender shaft, and seemingly floating shade corresponds to the functional design understanding of early Modernism. The surface displays a rare, warm metallic tone between satin nickel, champagne, and light brass, which changes with the incidence of light and has preserved the characteristic patina of age. The lamp has two light sources with original brass fittings, creating an even and pleasant light distribution under the wide shade. Especially noteworthy is the preserved original fabric-covered cable with a historical switch – an authentic detail that further enhances its collector's value. The overall condition is very good; only slight age-related signs of wear, fine scratches, and minimal traces of patina on the shade bear witness to its history and do not detract from its appeal. The lamp was manufactured by Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik (WMF), one of the most important German producers of high-quality metal goods and design objects of the early 20th century. With the Ikora line, WMF developed a distinct design language from the late 1920s onwards, combining artisanal quality, innovative metal finishing, and modern design. Today, Ikora objects are among the most sought-after designs of the German Art Deco and Modernist era. The design is attributed to the WMF Ikora designs, which were significantly shaped by Paul Haustein. His works combine the clarity of Modernism with the decorative elegance of Art Deco and are exemplary of the design quality of WMF's production during this period. Today, original WMF Ikora lamps...

A silver-plated brass body, which was "fire-patinated" in a newly developed chemical process, makes this "Ikora" table lamp a true example of how technological innovation drove exceptional design in 1920s Germany! During the late 1920s WMF developed new techniques involving chemical reactions on precious metals and glass to produce its celebrated "Ikora" collection. By using a stopping-out method to create the pattern and adding Ammonia to blacken the brass during a high temperature firing process, a playful, yet geometric pattern was achieved, which gives this lamp a timeless Art Deco aesthetic. Originally designed in 1928 by Prof Paul Haustein as a decorative metal container with lid, WMF decided to also use this design for this table lamp with model number 110 / 216 The lamp is wired for two E27 light bulbs and the central column can be easily extended by up to 8 cm (3.1 in) by loosening and tightening a small handle next to the two light sockets. This allows for different light effects as well as mounting larger lamp shades...

Truly a collector's item, and colored in the most attractive "Tiffany-Green", this is probably the only Paul Haustein WMF Ikora table lamp model 251/169a on the market today - if not the only one! "Fire-patinated" in a newly developed chemical process, this "Ikora" table lamp is an outstanding example of how technological innovation drove exceptional design in 1920s Germany! The distinctive green of this lamp was achieved by treating the brass with an iron-copper-vitriol mixture, also known as japanning bath...