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An icon of 20th-century lighting design, the PH 3½–2½ Glass Table Lamp by Poul Henningsen for Louis Poulsen represents the culmination of decades of research into how light should truly function in a space. First conceived in the late 1920s, this model is part of Henningsen’s revolutionary three-shade system—a design that forever changed the way we experience electric light.
At the core of Henningsen’s philosophy was a relentless pursuit: to eliminate glare and create beautifully diffused, usable light. Through years of experimentation and precise calculations, he developed a system based on a logarithmic spiral, allowing each shade to reflect light evenly downward while softly illuminating the surrounding environment. The result is light that feels natural, balanced, and remarkably comfortable.
This example features mouth-blown, three-layer opal glass shades, glossy on the exterior and sandblasted beneath, producing a warm, uniform glow that is both functional and atmospheric. The rare green top shade—no longer in production—adds a subtle depth and richness, elevating the lamp from a design classic to a true collector’s piece.
Originally introduced as an alternative to hanging lamps, the PH table lamp offers versatility for modern living. Whether placed on a desk, credenza, or bedside table, it provides glare-free task lighting while contributing sculptural presence to the space.
Adding to its provenance, this lamp was previously owned by Gwyneth Paltrow, giving it a unique story that intersects design history with contemporary culture.
At Hobbs Modern, we appreciate pieces that marry intellectual design with everyday usability—and this lamp does exactly that. It is not simply a light source, but a carefully engineered object designed to improve the quality of light in your home.
Details & Highlights:
- Designed by Poul Henningsen for Louis Poulsen
- Model: PH 3½–2½ Table Lamp
- Original three-shade system based on a logarithmic spiral
- Mouth-blown three-layer opal glass shades
- Glossy exterior / matte underside for soft, even light distribution
- Rare discontinued green top shade
- Provides glare-free, balanced illumination
- Suitable for desk, bedside, or ambient lighting applications
- Provenance: Previously owned by Gwyneth Paltrow
Timeless, intelligent, and beautifully executed, the PH 3½–2½ table lamp remains one of the most important lighting designs ever created—just as relevant today as it was nearly a century ago.
An icon of 20th-century lighting design, the PH 3½–2½ Glass Table Lamp by Poul Henningsen for Louis Poulsen represents the culmination of decades of research into how light should truly function in a space. First conceived in the late 1920s, this model is part of Henningsen’s revolutionary three-shade system—a design that forever changed the way we experience electric light.
At the core of Henningsen’s philosophy was a relentless pursuit: to eliminate glare and create beautifully diffused, usable light. Through years of experimentation and precise calculations, he developed a system based on a logarithmic spiral, allowing each shade to reflect light evenly downward while softly illuminating the surrounding environment. The result is light that feels natural, balanced, and remarkably comfortable.
This example features mouth-blown, three-layer opal glass shades, glossy on the exterior and sandblasted beneath, producing a warm, uniform glow that is both functional and atmospheric. The rare green top shade—no longer in production—adds a subtle depth and richness, elevating the lamp from a design classic to a true collector’s piece.
Originally introduced as an alternative to hanging lamps, the PH table lamp offers versatility for modern living. Whether placed on a desk, credenza, or bedside table, it provides glare-free task lighting while contributing sculptural presence to the space.
Adding to its provenance, this lamp was previously owned by Gwyneth Paltrow, giving it a unique story that intersects design history with contemporary culture.
At Hobbs Modern, we appreciate pieces that marry intellectual design with everyday usability—and this lamp does exactly that. It is not simply a light source, but a carefully engineered object designed to improve the quality of light in your home.
Details & Highlights:
- Designed by Poul Henningsen for Louis Poulsen
- Model: PH 3½–2½ Table Lamp
- Original three-shade system based on a logarithmic spiral
- Mouth-blown three-layer opal glass shades
- Glossy exterior / matte underside for soft, even light distribution
- Rare discontinued green top shade
- Provides glare-free, balanced illumination
- Suitable for desk, bedside, or ambient lighting applications
- Provenance: Previously owned by Gwyneth Paltrow
Timeless, intelligent, and beautifully executed, the PH 3½–2½ table lamp remains one of the most important lighting designs ever created—just as relevant today as it was nearly a century ago.
See why our clients trust Hobbs Modern:
Wood Care
Keep the furniture in a cool, dry place
Avoid furniture's direct exposure to rain, sun or wind
Avoid placing hot objects directly on the piece to prevent undesirable marks or permanent circles.
Avoid placing objects that may cause scratches to the surface
Clean using water only in small quantities and apply it with soft, damp cloth
After damp cloth wipe with a soft, dry cloth
You can use other liquids that are especially for cleaning wood furniture. Take into account the type of wood and follow the manufacturer's instructions
Upholstery Care
Do not expose directly to sunlight to provide greater durability colors
Exchange both side pads, the seat and backrest, to obtain uniform wear
Shake the cushions regularly to remove dust and to maintain the stability of the form
Clean regularly with a vacuum cleaner in good condition
Use a textile fabric cleaning substance according to and following the manufacturer's instructions
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