Hans Bergstrm for Atelj Lyktan, 'Knight' wall light, variation on model '1012' copper, blown glass, Sweden, 1940s

This rare wall light designed by Hans Bergstrm for Atelj Lyktan, known as the Knight, immediately evokes a medieval silhouette. Its pointed top resembling a helmet or lance, while the cage-like frame could be interpreted as protective armor. At its core is a softly rounded, tapering cylinder of purple blown glass that gives the lamp a warm, diffused glow when lit, and a muted, mysterious presence when off. The backplate and mounting arm are sturdy, compact, and rendered in copper with a natural patina, anchoring the vertical volume to the wall. The design also takes the form of a traditional lantern. The spike at the top is almost whimsical in its sharpness, adding a finishing note of drama.

Hans Bergstrm (1910-1996), a luminary figure hailing from the realm of Swedish architecture and design, was born on November 4, 1910, in Karlshamn, Sweden. After his completion of secondary school in 1927, Hans embarked on an internship at Ystad Metall, a local craft industry situated near his grandfather's farm. In 1929, he sought further education and enrolled at the esteemed School of Art and Design in Stockholm. Remarkably, even before his graduation from this institution, at the age of twenty, Hans showcased his prowess as a designer for Ystad Metall at the prestigious Stockholm Exhibition in 1930.

In the 1920s, Hans encountered his future wife Verna during the summer holidays in his native town of Karlshamn. In 1934, the couple jointly established the company atelj Lyktan, a venture that combined their collaborative efforts in luminaire design and various artistic pursuits. Bergstrm undertook various commissions spanning a wide range of architectural environments, including churches, private residences, and public buildings. It was from this point forward that Bergstrm spearheaded a revolution in Swedish luminaire manufacturing, fundamentally transforming the perception and application of electric lighting in the coming decades.

During the advent of the 1950s, the emergence of plastic as a novel material in modern lighting captured Hans' attention. As the United States gradually introduced plastic as a material of significance, Bergstrm encountered a method involving the application of sprayed plastic onto a rotating wire frame, facilitated by a spray gun. Interestingly, this technique bore certain resemblances to the later approach employed by Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in the creation of their Viscontea Lamp (1960), reminiscent of a cocoon, designed for Flos. Recognizing the vast potential offered by this new technology, he successfully managed to get a patent for the production.

For a span of three decades, Bergstrm held the position of creative director at atelj Lyktan and served as the sole designer of the company until the early 1960s. A significant portion of his designs were unique pieces, numbered but lacking specific names. Through his pioneering work, Bergstrm emerged as a leading figure in the realm of modern Swedish lighting fixtures. On June 14, 1996, Hans Bergstrm passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.

Kindly note that the piece is in good, used condition with signs of age and use. For further details, we encourage you to reach out to our team of design specialists.