Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL
A set of three French Brutalist table lamps in brass and wrought iron by the artisan blacksmith Max Bré, 1960s–70s. Shaped like an old oil lamp or jug with a slender neck, each lamp has the finely ribbed, roughly modelled brass body typical of his work and a flat wrought-iron handle. A vintage lamp base in the French Brutalist tradition, ideal as a set or spread throughout the house.
Design
The brass bodies have a lively, irregular surface built up by hand; the flat wrought-iron handles clamp around the shoulder with two split ends. Two of the three lamps are stamped BRE and MAX on the handle; the third is unmarked, and the three were acquired together as a set. Max Bré worked as an artisan blacksmith in the Lot and Dordogne and, from the 1950s to the 1970s, made jugs, bowls, mirrors and lamps with this recognisable, handcrafted character. Because each lamp is handmade, they differ slightly from one another, yet together they form a strong ensemble. The contrast between the warm, mottled brass and the dark wrought iron makes them truly sculptural.
Condition
Good vintage condition with a strong, well-worn patina. The brass has dark and reddish-brown spots and light wear consistent with age; the wrought-iron handles show rust and signs of use. There are no loose or missing parts. The lamps have French bayonet fittings (B22) and old flat cords, one with an inline switch. The wiring has not been checked by us; we advise having the lamps inspected by an electrician before use and rewired if necessary. Supplied without shades. Please see the photos for details.
Dimensions (each lamp, approx.): height 26 cm, diameter 12 cm, width including handle 17 cm. The three lamps differ slightly from one another (handmade).
In the interior
Perfect in a wabi-sabi, Brutalist or mid-century interior, but also in a French country house or among antiques and natural materials such as linen, stone and oak. Beautiful in a row on a sideboard or windowsill, with simple linen shades.
Keywords: Max Bré, Brutalist table lamp, French Brutalist lamp...
Category
1960s French Vintage Brutalist Lighting
MaterialsBrass, Wrought Iron