Louis Poulsen

PH 4½-3½ Glass Table Lamp

$5,750.00

Poul Henningsen pioneered the three-shade system in 1925-1926, collaborating with Louis Poulsen for the initial lights showcased in Paris. This partnership lasted until his death in 1967. PH aimed to create glare-free, directed light with soft shadows using incandescent bulbs. The PH 4½-3½ Glass Table belongs to this family, with around 30 lights today, including outdoor variants. This system produced a vast array of models over the years, comprising table, floor, and wall lamps, as well as various chandeliers popular in 1930s homes. The options included different colors and sizes. Initially, metal shades with painted undersurfaces were used, later transitioning to glass.

PH introduced a scientific approach to light, utilizing the logarithmic spiral for even light distribution and glare control. Each shade equally reduces light due to its distance from the source, with model numbers indicating shade sizes. The PH 4½-3½ Glass Table, introduced in 1990, features a 45 cm top shade paired with lower shades from the 3½ model, catering to the desire for lower hanging pendants. This adaptable system extended to wall, table, and floor lamps.

14"H x 7.9"Ø, Cord Length: 120"

Light Source:
1x15W A-19/IF medium US

Material: 
Top Plate: High lustre chrome plated, spun brass
Shades: Hand-blown opal glass
Base: High lustre chrome plated, spun brass
Stem: High lustre chrome plated, steel

Designer

Poul Henningsen (1894-1967) was a highly influential Danish designer, architect, writer, and cultural critic, renowned for his pioneering work in lighting design, which remains integral to Louis Poulsen’s heritage. Born in Copenhagen to writers Agnes Henningsen and Carl Ewald, Henningsen initially practiced functionalist architecture but became famous for his innovative lighting designs. During WWII, he briefly served as the head architect for Tivoli Gardens before fleeing to Sweden, where he joined a community of Danish artists.

Brand

Established in 1874 as a lighting manufacturer, Louis Poulsen has become one of the world's leading producers of lighting. This success is attributed to collaborations with renowned designers and architects like Arne Jacobsen, Øivind Slaatto, Poul Henningsen, and Verner Panton.

Poul Henningsen
Louis Poulsen