Einar Bäckström for Metallvarufabrik — Table Lamp Model 7212, Brass, Malmö, 1950s/60s
An elegant Swedish table lamp Model 7212 by Einar Bäckströms Metallvarufabrik, Malmö, 1950s/60s. The lamp captivates with its hand-turned brass base in classical-baroque proportions, the conical natural linen shade, and the outstanding craft quality of Swedish metalwork.
Highlights:
Designer/Manufacturer: Einar Bäckström for Einar Bäckströms Metallvarufabrik, Malmö Period: 1950s/60s Style: Swedish Modern / Empire Revival Distinctive features: fully hand-turned brass base with hexagonal stepped foot, original embossed "EB 7212 MADE IN SWEDEN" mark on the underside, original toggle switch with Swedish S safety sticker, authentic brass patina Ideal for: side table, bedside table, desk, sideboard, collectors of Scandinavian Mid-Century design
Description:
This table lamp Model 7212 was hand-crafted in the 1950s–60s by Einar Bäckström in his metalwork factory in Malmö. Particularly characteristic are the hand-turned brass base with its multi-stepped, baluster-form shaft and hexagonal stepped foot, the flat brass plate beneath the shade, and the conical shade in natural beige linen. The underside bears the embossed model number "EB 7212" and "MADE IN SWEDEN."
The lamp unites the traditional formal vocabulary of the Empire and Baroque with the restrained material aesthetic of Swedish Modern, and works equally as a functional reading and task light and as a decorative element. The textile shade produces soft, diffuse light, while the brass base sets a warm, glowing accent through its natural patina.
In the room it reads as classically elegant and timeless. It is particularly effective on a side table, bedside table, or writing desk in combination with wooden furniture, leather, textiles, or other Scandinavian Mid-Century elements.
Condition:
Very good vintage condition with authentic but restrained patina. The brass shows natural tarnishing and light discolouration that underline the character of the lamp. The shade is a sympathetic modern replacement. The electrics are functional and have probably been renewed but do not necessarily conform to current technical standards and should be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.
Details:
Designer: Einar Bäckström (1889–1978)
Manufacturer: Einar Bäckströms Metallvarufabrik, Malmö
Model: 7212
Origin: Sweden
Period: 1950s–1960s
Style: Swedish Modern / Empire Revival
Material: Brass (base and socket), textile/linen (shade), bakelite (socket)
Colour: Patinated brass / gold brass, natural beige / linen
Dimensions: Height approx. 42 cm (with shade), base diameter approx. 12 cm, shade diameter approx. 27 cm
Socket: E27
Condition: Very good vintage condition with natural brass patina; shade is a modern replacement; electrics functional
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.