Collectible Scandinavian Mid Century Einar Bäckström for Metallvarufabrik — Table Lamp Model B70, Brass, Malmö, 1950s/60s
An elegant Swedish Mid-Century table lamp Model B70 by Einar Bäckström, 1950s/60s. The lamp captivates with its sculptural, fluted column shaft in polished brass, the stepped base, and the minimalist contrasting shade in deep black — a perfect combination of traditional Scandinavian craftsmanship and timeless Mid-Century elegance.
Highlights:
Designer/Manufacturer: Einar Bäckströms Metallvarufabrik, Malmö Period: 1950s/60s Origin: Malmö, Sweden Style: Swedish Modern / Mid-Century Modern Distinctive features: fluted, neoclassical-inspired column shaft in polished brass; massive stepped brass base with integrated push switch; high-quality material combination of polished brass and contrasting textile shade Ideal for: sideboard, bedside table, writing desk, Scandinavian and design collectors
Description:
This table lamp was designed and crafted in the 1950s to 60s by Einar Bäckström for his own metalwork factory in Malmö. Model B70 is characterised by its refined, architectural formal language. The central shaft is fluted in the classical style and flows seamlessly into a stepped round brass base, on which the characteristic white push switch is located. The conical black textile shade delivers focused light upward and downward, bathing the room in atmospheric, glare-free light.
Einar Bäckström is known for his high-quality brasswork, which marks the transition from Swedish historicism to the modern, functional design of the twentieth century. In the room the lamp reads as sculptural, refined, and quietly elegant. It works particularly well on dark wooden surfaces such as teak or rosewood, and integrates perfectly into minimalist as well as eclectic interiors.
Condition:
Very good vintage condition with minimal, age-appropriate patina. The brass displays a beautiful sheen with only very fine, superficial oxidation marks and micro-scratches. The black shade is a modern replacement — clean, colour-true, and free of cracks or stains. The electrics including the original push switch and textile/plastic cable are functional but correspond to the historical condition and should be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.
Details:
Designer: Einar Bäckström
Manufacturer: Einar Bäckströms Metallvarufabrik, Malmö
Model: B70
Origin: Malmö, Sweden
Period: 1950s/60s
Style: Swedish Modern, Mid-Century Modern
Material: Brass (polished), textile (shade), plastic/metal (switch)
Colour: Gold/brass, deep black (shade), white (push button)
Dimensions: Height approx. 45–50 cm, base diameter approx. 12 cm
Socket: E27
Condition:
Very good vintage condition with minimal patina; shade is a modern replacement
Note:
Please note: This item is a vintage lamp. It was manufactured many years ago and may not conform to current technical standards. Before use, the electrical components should be inspected and, if necessary, updated by a qualified electrician. Bulbs are only included if explicitly stated. This item is sold as a collectible/antique and not as a standards-compliant electrical appliance.
WEE Nr.
70030832
Product Safety
This lamp is an original vintage piece. Prior to sale, a visual and functional inspection was carried out (cable, plug, socket, strain relief) as well as a test run. It has not been comprehensively tested in accordance with current VDE standards. Due to its age, the electrical components may pose risks (e.g. aged insulation, missing earth conductor). Before connecting to the 230V mains, it is therefore strongly recommended to have the lamp inspected and, if necessary, updated by a qualified electrician. Use is at the owner's own risk.
Manufacturer
Einar Bäckströms Metallvarufabrik – Swedish Brass Manufactory Einar Bäckströms Metallvarufabrik was founded in 1918 in Malmö, Sweden, by brothers Einar Bäckström (1889–1978) and Sune Bäckström. Both were trained chisellers, specialising in artisanal metalworking. The company focused on electric lighting fixtures during the Swedish electrification period. The workshop and showroom were located at Föreningsgatan 8 in Malmö. Einar Bäckström designed all models himself. Production in the 1920s followed Art Deco conventions with brass lamps in geometric forms and surface treatments such as green oxidation. Among the best-known pieces are the table lamp models 5013 and 5014 from the 1940s with leather-wrapped brass shafts – typical examples of Swedish Modern design. In the 1950s and 60s, collaborations took place with glass artist Erik Höglund of Boda Glasbruk. The company ceased production in 1975 after 57 years. Einar Bäckström died in 1978.