Poul Henningsen devised the iconic three-shade system associated with Louis Poulsen’s PH range, in 1926, as he sought a way to reduce the harshness of electric light, an emergent technology at the time. The pendant is made of Italian mouth-blown one-layered glass, featuring an amber glossy surface on the outside which contrasts beautifully with the sandblasted matt underside; helping to soften and diffuse light. Completing the luminaire is a brushed brass suspension fitting, which will naturally patina unless treated, adding further character to the piece.
Poul Henningsen is an integral figure in lighting design and architecture, whose revolutionary views on the utilisation of light in the home led to a number of ground-breaking designs.
Collaborating with Louis Poulsen in 1924/25, Henningsen produced the first version of the seminal PH multi-shade lamp, a classic piece of modern lighting design, featuring separate elements which are shaped and assembled in such a way that the bulb is covered and light is directed downward, creating a soft, diffused effect.
Henningsen was aware of the importance of light in urban life, but sought a way to subdue the harshness of electric light while harnessing its mood-altering properties, believing that the aesthetic of an interior is highly dependent on how light is used.