PH 3/4 Table Lamp in Opal Glass & Chrome by Poul Henningsen for Louis Poulsen, 1920s Design

Model · PH 3/4 Table Lamp
Designer · Poul Henningsen
Manufacturer · Louis Poulsen
Origin · Denmark
Design · 1920s
Production · Later vintage production
Style · Scandinavian Modern / Danish Modern
Materials · Hand-blown opal glass, chrome-plated metal
Colour · White, chrome

Object

The PH 3/4 Table Lamp belongs to Poul Henningsen's revolutionary family of multi-shade lamps, a lighting system that fundamentally changed the relationship between the light source, the object and the surrounding interior.

Developed during the 1920s, Henningsen's system was based on a carefully calculated arrangement of multiple shades. Rather than allowing the bulb to illuminate a room directly, each surface receives and redirects part of the light, controlling its distribution while shielding the eye from uncomfortable glare.

In the PH 3/4, this technical principle becomes an exceptionally refined object. Three hand-blown opal glass shades are arranged around a slender chrome structure, their overlapping profiles creating the characteristic silhouette of Henningsen's lighting. The glass softens and diffuses the light while the layered construction directs it precisely where needed.

The contrast between translucent white glass and reflective chrome gives the lamp a particularly light presence. Its construction remains completely legible, yet the technical complexity behind the three-shade system disappears into a composition that feels remarkably effortless.

Although conceived almost a century ago, the PH system remains relevant because Henningsen was designing the quality of light rather than simply the appearance of a lamp. The object is ultimately a consequence of that investigation, making the PH 3/4 as much an instrument for shaping atmosphere as a piece of furniture.

Designer

Poul Henningsen (1894–1967), commonly known simply as PH, was a Danish architect, designer, writer and cultural critic and one of the most important figures in the history of modern lighting.

Henningsen's work was driven by an intense interest in the relationship between artificial light and human perception. At a time when the exposed electric bulb was transforming domestic interiors, he became concerned with controlling glare and creating illumination that felt softer and more natural.

His experiments resulted in the multi-shade system for which he became internationally recognised. The principle used carefully proportioned reflective surfaces to distribute light while concealing the bulb from direct view.

Henningsen's collaboration with Louis Poulsen began in 1925, when his lighting was presented at the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris and received a gold medal.

The three-shade principle subsequently became the foundation for an entire family of PH lamps and one of the most enduring innovations in 20th-century lighting design.

Manufacturer

Louis Poulsen was founded in Denmark in 1874 and developed into one of the world's most influential architectural lighting manufacturers.

The company's collaboration with Poul Henningsen became fundamental to its identity. Beginning in the 1920s, the partnership united Henningsen's research into light with Louis Poulsen's technical manufacturing expertise, allowing his increasingly sophisticated lighting systems to enter production.

Rather than approaching lighting primarily as decorative objects, Louis Poulsen developed a philosophy centred on the effect of light itself: its direction, softness, atmosphere and relationship with architecture.

The PH collection became the clearest expression of this approach and remains central to the manufacturer's legacy in Danish modern design.

Condition

The hand-blown white opal glass shades are presented in excellent vintage condition and have been carefully cleaned.

The chrome-plated structure and base have been polished and remain beautifully preserved, showing only minimal traces of natural ageing consistent with a well-maintained vintage piece.

Overall, the lamp is presented in excellent vintage condition, preserving the clarity of both its glass and metal elements.

As with all vintage lighting, the electrical components should be inspected by a qualified electrician before use and adapted where necessary to local electrical standards.

Dimensions

Height · 44.5 cm / 17.5 in
Shade diameter · 30 cm / 11.8 in
Base diameter · 16 cm / 6.3 in

Included

The PH 3/4 Table Lamp is accompanied by a Back to the Furniture Certificate of Originality, a Back to the Furniture flyer, a Thank You card and a small gift.

Availability

The PH 3/4 Table Lamp is ready to ship within 10 business days.

Shipping

Worldwide shipping is available. Every piece is carefully prepared and packed for international transport. Shipping costs are calculated according to destination at checkout, with tracking provided after dispatch.

Enquiries

For questions about the piece, its condition, shipping, delivery or any other details, please get in touch. Additional information is always available before purchase.

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