Table lamp 1935

This table lamp was created by Walter von Nessen, likely in the United States, though the exact date is unknown. The lamp, made of aluminum, wood and glass, embodies the streamlined aesthetic of the Art Deco movement. The design merges functionalism with sleek, modern forms. We can see how the influence of industrial design and machine-age aesthetics shaped even everyday objects during this period. Think about the rise of mass production, modern architecture, and new technologies that defined the early 20th century. The lamp reflects a broader cultural shift towards embracing modernity and efficiency in all aspects of life. As historians, we can delve into design journals, trade catalogs, and architectural records to understand the cultural context and trace the evolution of design aesthetics during this transformative period. By studying the social and cultural forces that shaped the design, we gain insights into the values, aspirations, and anxieties of the era.