ASEA, Wall Lights, Brass, Glass, Sweden, 1940s

A brass and frosted glass wall light produced by ASEA, Sweden, c. 1940s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 5.75” H x 24.875” W x 7“ D Back Plate Dimensions (Inches): 3.375” H x 1.125” W...

A pair of nickel-plated metal and metal wall lights designed and produced by ASEA, Sweden, 1940s. Variable dimensions, measured as illustrated in the first image. Dimensions of ba...

With its organically shaped blown glass shade, especially rare in this opaline frosted glass version, the GA9 resembles a floating droplet. Designed by Swedish architect Erik Gunnar Asplund, widely regarded as the godfather of Swedish modernism, this lamp embodies his signature geometric clarity and structural ingenuity. Like his Stockholm City Library, it balances simplicity with innovation. A bent arm holds the glass, while another secures the light source at the luminaire’s center. The black lacquered metal curves organically, contrasting with polygonal backplates—an interplay of geometry and fluidity that defines Asplund’s vision. The large, mushroom-like shades diffuse light in a soft, mesmerizing glow, enhancing the atmosphere beyond mere functionality. Asplund’s influence extended to Scandinavian design icons such as Alvar Aalto, Erik Bryggman...

“GA9” appears to be inspired by a droplet, floating upward the wall. The mouth blown glass with bubbles creates an intricate play between light and shadow, giving the appearance of light travelling through water. Swedish architect and designer, Erik Gunnar Asplund, is celebrated as the godfather of functionalist design in Sweden. Like his celebrated Stockholm City Library, these lamps emphasize geometric simplicity and clarity of form. The construction of this model is ingenious, with a bent arm holding the glass in place, with yet another arm holding the light source in the centre of the luminaire. The black lacquered metal bends organically into sinuous forms, while the backplates have a polygon shape. Pairing the geometric elements with the more organic ones shows Asplund’s great eye for design that was well ahead of his time. The large, mushroom-like mouth blown glass shades have distinctive “drops” on their surfaces, creating a beautiful effect that becomes even more apparent when the light is on. The atmospheric light it creates is not measurable, nor is it functional in the traditional sense. It is easily forgotten, but nevertheless important when creating a space of wellbeing. It is the most basic and fundamental of all lighting principles, one that has been with us since the dawn of time. Asplund’s life and work served as inspiration to a number of Scandinavian design luminaries, such as lifelong friend and mentee Alvar Aalto, as well as Erik Bryggman...