Rare Original Orange Colour – Mid-Century Design Classic with Authentic Patina
Highlights:
Original Philips Junior table lamp, Netherlands, c. 1955. Design Louis Kalff for Philips, Eindhoven. Domed mushroom shade in orange lacquered aluminium with circumferential slot perforations. Curved black metal arm. Round orange base with integrated original on/off switch and brass stem fitting. Embossed Philips manufacturer mark on base. Original blue felt underside pad intact. Single E27 socket.
Description:
The Junior is one of the most produced and most recognisable table lamps to emerge from Philips under the creative direction of Louis Christiaan Kalff in the early 1950s. The concept is as straightforward as it is resolved: a broad, shallow mushroom shade with slot perforations sits on a curved arm above a heavy round base. The perforations scatter a portion of the light upward and sideways while the shade directs the main cone of light downward. The embossed Philips manufacturer mark on the base documents the origin unambiguously.
This example shows an evenly faded finish acquired over decades of use — the orange is softer and lighter than on later production pieces, a characteristic feature of early production years. For collectors and interior designers who value authentic patina over restoration, that is precisely the appeal.
Condition:
Used, honest vintage condition with visible age and wear. The shade exterior shows scratches, marks and an evenly faded, matte surface. The socket housing has a prominent paint loss with exposed bare metal. The base shows localised surface corrosion and minor scratches; the base lacquer is otherwise largely intact. The metal ring at the socket fitting shows rust marks. All brass details present. Original on/off switch operational. Socket functional. Power cable replaced.
Details:
Manufacturer: Philips, Eindhoven (Netherlands)
Designer: Louis Christiaan Kalff
Model: Junior
Colour: Orange (faded)
Material: Lacquered aluminium, lacquered steel, brass
Socket: 1 × E27
Period: 1950s
Dimensions: Height approx. 42 cm, shade diameter approx. 33 cm
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
Philips was one of the leading European manufacturers of industrial and design lighting in the 1960s and 1970s. The NX series was part of the professional lighting range and was distinguished by its robust metal construction, flexible adjustment and industrial character.