Orrefors - Wiktor (Viktor) Berndt - Ceiling lamp - Moon-blown glass

Swedish design pendant lamp by Viktor Berndt for Orrefors – mouth-blown smoky glass – c. 1962–1965 – Mid-Century Scandinavian Modern

Description:

A rare and sculptural Graal pendant with a “Fossil” pattern, designed by Viktor Berndt (1914–1994) for Orrefors in Sweden, circa 1962–1965. A beautiful example of Scandinavian glass art design from the Mid-Century period. The lamp was designed by Wiktor Berndt (often listed as Viktor) during his tenure at the Swedish glassworks Orrefors, where he served as chief designer from 1956 to 1974. Berndt did indeed work briefly for Orrefors, and this Orrefors Graal pendant lamp is by his hand.

The pendant has a double-walled, Sommerso-like construction with an outer layer of clear glass containing an embedded organic pattern. The interior is a completely white opal (very typical of Orrefors technique, rarely seen in Flygsfors pendants).

Structure in the glass pattern is a controlled embedded structure (Orrefors Graal technique variant). It closely resembles the same decorative technique that Berndt used on his Orrefors object glass in the early 1960s. The mounting plate and ground edge with a flat-ground top features a metal ventilation disc; this is exactly the type of mounting Orrefors used on their heavier studio pendants. Flygsfors generally used simpler suspensions without this precision grinding. This is studio-glass level thickness and weight (more Orrefors than Flygsfors in mass production).

The Pendant is made from mouth-blown smoke glass with a distinctive marbled texture and subtle air-bubble inclusions in the glass. This artisanal surface gives the lamp an almost fossil / organic, stone-like appearance, while the glass simultaneously emits warm, diffuse light.
By day it is a work of art – by night a cozy light source.

This highly collectible, elegant clock-shaped or trumpet-shaped shade has generous dimensions and is a true eye-catcher in any interior.

This type is among the more sought-after Orrefors studio lighting and, in terms of value, is generally higher than Flygsfors pendants.

Dimensions: H 37 cm x Ø 28 cm

Weight: 1968 grams

Origin
Orrefors – Sweden
Designer: Viktor Berndt (1914–1994)
Period: circa 1962–1965

Excellent vintage condition, with minimal signs of age and use. No chips, glass brilliantly clear, etc.). Wiring and fitting as photographed. Fully cleaned and ready for use.

A special collectible for enthusiasts of Scandinavian design, glass art, and Mid-Century modern lighting.

It will be carefully and securely packaged with smart shipping and sent via registered and insured mail.