A rare pair of ‘X’ table lamps by Jean-Michel Frank, dating from circa 1938 and edited in Brazil by Henrique Liberal. The lamps are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the Comité Jean-Michel Frank.

The lamps have a beautifully simple construction. Each base is formed from intersecting sections of palmwood arranged into an open X-shaped structure, supporting a slender brass stem and paper shade. The geometry changes considerably as the lamps are viewed from different angles: from the front the bases appear remarkably light and open, while from the side the overlapping planes of palmwood give them a much more substantial, sculptural presence.

For us, the palmwood is an important part of the appeal of this pair. Its strongly figured grain gives considerable warmth and texture to what is otherwise a very restrained geometric form. This contrasts beautifully with the simplicity of the brass stem and the pale paper shade above.

The lamps are a good example of Frank's ability to work with relatively simple forms while allowing the quality and character of the materials to do much of the work. There is very little unnecessary detail; the open geometric base, narrow brass stem and shade are clearly separated, giving the lamps a lightness that belies the strength of the construction.

The pair also has excellent provenance. They were formerly in the collection of Linneo Eduardo de Paula Machado in Rio de Janeiro and were edited by Henrique Liberal in Brazil.

The palmwood bases have developed a rich, warm surface while retaining the distinctive figuring of the timber. The brass has similarly aged naturally, giving a softer surface that works particularly well with the wood.

The lamps have been carefully cleaned, rewired and are presented in excellent condition. The paper shades are later replacements, made in an appropriate form and proportion for the lamps.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.