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“Mermaid” Table Lamp by Eileen Gray for Jumo, France ca 1950s

Creator: Eileen Gray - Jumo
Offered by: H. Gallery

Description
Eileen Gray was a significant designer and architect born in 1878 in Brownswood, Ireland. While in Paris, in the 1920s, Gray opened her own stores to sell her furniture pieces - and just a few years later, designed and built the iconic “E-1027” Modernist villa in the south of France along with frequent collaborator Jean Badovici. Whilst her earlier works were mostly figurative, she eventually became a proponent of Modernity, inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship and the geometric Dutch art movement known as De Stijl. Gray is best known for her revolutionary and innovative designs, such as this ‘Mermaid’ table lamp, embodying her timelessly elegant craftsmanship.

The ‘Mermaid’ table lamp has a sense of character and individuality, meticulously crafted to showcase the very best of Gray’s design style. Although this lamp was created in the middle of the 20th century it is reminiscent of the Art Deco movement, with its use of geometric forms and visual symmetrical balance. This play with geometry and symmetry is evident in the use of round shapes and straight lines. The combination of gold and black sheet metal also further echoes the Art Deco colour palette, with the acrylic shade joining the top and the base of the lamp seamlessly, balancing out the different elements and creating a harmonious composition. As highlighted by the name of this model, the lamp’s body features an eye-catching figure of a gilded metal mermaid, adding to the overall elegance of the piece. The symbolism behind the depiction of mermaids often communicates desire and defying limitations, like Gray who revolutionised design practices. With its distinct composition and soft glow, this lamp is a unique addition that transforms any room into a welcoming and cosy space.

Today, Gray’s designs can be found at the V&A in London, and in the permanent design collection of The Museum of Modern Art in New York. She was also given the title of Royal Designer for Industry in 1972 by The Royal Society of Arts.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.

Dimensions:
14.96 in Ø x 19.29 in H
38 cm Ø x 49 cm H

Shipping:
This lamp will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the item in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.

IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU.

More Information

Documentation:	Documented elsewhere (exact item)
Origin:	France
Period:	1950-1979
Materials:	Brass, Lacquered Metal, Acrylic
Condition:	Good. In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Creation Date:	ca 1950s
Styles / Movements:	Modern, Mid Century
Dealer Reference #:	20242678
Incollect Reference #:	775012

Dimensions

H.	19.29 in;	Diam.	14.96 in;
H.	49 cm;	Diam.	38 cm;

Message from Seller:

Located in Utrecht, The Netherlands, H. Gallery specializes in modern and contemporary design with a strong focus on Brazil and Scandinavia. The gallery strives to preserve and promote especially Brazil's rich design heritage and curates a select group of contemporary artists. Meticulous research, ie getting in contact with the original designers, producers, their heirs, and retrieving and indexing old catalogues and magazines is at the heart of its activities. All works presented excel in great