Skønvirke table lamp by Martin Mortensen
Spectacular table lamp by Martin Mortensen (1874-1949) with tiered shape and handles, featuring Skønvirke-style organic modeling resembling flames, in stoneware with flowing gray-ivory glaze, Denmark, 1919. Artist mark and year on underside.
Scholarship has recently began to shed light on the life of this fascinating ceramist with his inimitable style. (The handles, relief patterning and near monochrome glazing are central themes in Mortensen’s work.) Trained as an architect, Mortensen purchased the Taastrup Pottery which he owned until 1923. Of the limited number of pieces by this artist, a large concentration are dated 1919, although the reason for this is unclear. The Vejen Kunstmuseum in Denmark owns the largest collection of his work. / #MMO101
14 in. (36 cm) H x 7 in. (18 cm) D; 22.5 in. (57 cm) H with bronze harp
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