Alvar Aalto A335B pendant lamps Valaistustyö Ky Finland 1955

This exceptionally rare set of early 1960s A335B pendant lamps, designed by Alvar Aalto and manufactured by Valaistustyö Ky in Finland in 1955, is a remarkable find. These pendants are in completely original condition, featuring unpolished brass with a beautiful and authentic patina—something rarely seen, as most examples have been polished to a shiny finish. Sourced from a private home in Italy, where a A808 floor lamps were also present, this set carries a rich history and undeniable charm.

The A335B pendants showcase Aalto’s thoughtful design with hand-turned shades crafted from brass metal rings. These rings form a graceful bowl shape that diffuses light evenly, effectively reducing glare and creating a warm, ambient glow. The lamps’ slender necks are adorned with a white-painted collar, offering a subtle yet striking contrast to the rich brass shades. Originally designed in 1955 for the National Pensions Institute in Helsinki, these lamps bear the original “Valaisinpaja A335B 60W” sticker on the inside, underscoring their authenticity.

Kindly note that the lights are priced and sold individually.
 

Literature; Alvar Aalto Teokset 1918-1967 Leonardo Mosso, page 96.

Alvar Aalto (1898–1976), born in Kuortane, Finland, is celebrated as one of the great masters of modern architecture. His prolific career spanned designs for major public institutions, standardized housing, and private residences. As a co-founder of Artek, Aalto’s legacy continues to influence design and architecture today. His journey into furniture and lighting design began as a natural progression of his architectural practice, with his first modern furniture piece created in 1929 for the Paimio Sanatorium in Finland.

Founded in 1935, Artek was established to bring Alvar and Aino Aalto’s furniture, lighting, and textiles to an international audience. Aalto’s innovations in form and line solidified his place in design history. He initially gained recognition in Continental Europe as a furniture designer, with his architectural acclaim following soon after. His contributions to furniture design remain among his most significant achievements.

These lamps have been meticulously checked and cleaned in our atelier. They are fully functional and suitable for use in the USA. Custom cable length adjustments are available upon request, ensuring these iconic pendants can be tailored to suit any space.

This set of A335B pendant lamps is not only a functional lighting solution but also a collector’s piece that embodies Alvar Aalto’s enduring design philosophy and artistic legacy.