A highly distinctive Model K10-11 adjustable floor lamp, designed by Tapio Wirkkala and produced in Finland by Idman, circa 1958.

Often referred to as the ‘Crane’, the reason for the nickname becomes immediately apparent when the lamp is seen in profile. A long brass arm crosses an exceptionally slender vertical stem, with the black conical shade suspended at one end. The relationship between the vertical and diagonal elements gives the lamp an extraordinary sense of balance and lightness.

The construction is remarkably economical. A weighted black lacquered conical base supports the tall solid brass upright, while the long adjustable arm carries a similarly shaped black lacquered metal shade. The warm aged brass and black lacquer work extremely well together and give definition to what is otherwise a very spare structure.

The lamp is fully adjustable. The central hand-tightened mechanism allows the long arm to be positioned at different heights and angles, substantially altering both the height and reach of the light, while the shade can also be angled independently. The photographs show how dramatically the proportions of the lamp can change as the arm moves from a steep angle to an almost horizontal position.

At first glance, the brass ball at the opposite end of the arm appears to act as a counterweight, but this is not actually how the lamp achieves its balance. The stability comes from the weighted base, solid vertical stem and central hand-tightened mechanism. Together they hold the lamp securely in position, allowing the projecting arm to be placed at a wide range of angles while the main brass support remains perfectly vertical.

For us, this is one of the cleverest aspects of the design. Visually, the lamp appears to rely on a delicate balancing act, yet mechanically it is extremely stable. Even when the arm projects considerably to one side, the weighted base anchors the lamp securely and the vertical stem remains exactly where it should.

This adjustability also makes the K10-11 unusually versatile. At its greater height it works as a conventional floor lamp, but the arm can be lowered sufficiently for the piece to be used alongside a table. In either position, the long projecting arm allows the light to be brought over a chair, desk or table without requiring the base itself to be positioned immediately beside it.

The shade is beautifully resolved. Its elongated conical form directs the light downwards, while a series of small perforations around the narrow upper section allows points of light to escape when illuminated. The conical form of the shade is then repeated, in a much simpler form, by the base below.

The brass has developed a warm and varied patina over time and has deliberately not been polished back to a bright finish. The black lacquer to both the shade and base is original and similarly retains the minor marks and wear expected from a lamp of this age. We much prefer these surfaces to remain visible rather than refinishing the piece and removing evidence of its history.

The lamp carries the Idman manufacturer's mark in two places: the central adjustment mechanism is stamped Idman, as is the brass support holding the shade. These original markings are reassuring details on an example of the Model K10-11 and confirm its production by Idman in Finland. The design is documented in period Idman literature and in publications relating to Tapio Wirkkala's work.

The lamp has been carefully cleaned and is presented in very good original condition. The original black lacquer shows minor wear consistent with age and use, while the brass retains its naturally developed surface. The adjustment mechanisms operate correctly, allowing the height, projection and direction of the light to be changed easily.

The K10-11 is a piece we have always liked because its usefulness is inseparable from its appearance. Every adjustment changes the geometry of the lamp, sometimes quite dramatically, yet the design remains extremely simple. Whether used as a floor lamp or lowered beside a table, it is a remarkably elegant piece of Finnish lighting.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

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

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