Absolute Rarity!!!! IKORA Table Lamp by Paul Haustein for WMF, Model 251 / 169a, Germany 1930's

Truly a collector's item, and colored in the most attractive "Tiffany-Green", this is probably the only Paul Haustein WMF Ikora table lamp model  251/169a on the market today - if not the only one!

"Fire-patinated" in a newly developed chemical process, this "Ikora" table lamp is an outstanding example of how technological innovation drove exceptional design in 1920s Germany! The distinctive green of this lamp was achieved by treating the brass with an iron-copper-vitriol mixture, also known as japanning bath.

Originally designed around 1928 by Prof Paul Haustein as a decorative vase, WMF decided to also use this design for this table lamp with the same model numbers 251/169 "a" and "b" - the "a" denoting the green version, and the "b" standing for the red version. We discovered only one other matching Ikora in our research, a 251/169b (red) vase in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Object Number: 2010.298)!

In a marketing pamphlet for their "Ikora" line, dated November 1929, WMF featured this design on its front page and advertised the vase for 96 Reichsmark - the equivalent of a month's rent at the time.

The lamp is wired for two E27 light bulbs and the central column can be easily extended by up to 8 cm (3.1 in) by loosening and tightening a small handle  This allows for different light effects as well as mounting larger lamp shades.

Almost 100 years old, this table lamp is in good overall vintage condition with some signs of its age and use. The WMF tower logo is featured on the bottom side of the base.

This is an unique opportunity to acquire an iconic design for collectors and design enthusiast alike!

Dimensions:
Body Height: 49 cm - 57 cm (19.3 in - 22.4 in)
Base Diameter: 20 cm (7.9 in)
Lampshade not included!

Please note:
With a lifetime of stories behind them, our vintage design items come with a bit of character. 
Like the best of us, they may have picked up some scratches and scuff marks, acquired patina, and that original shine may have faded a little. And like with most of us, the internal struggles are not always visible to the outside world. 
Our second-hand items may not fulfil state-of-the art safety standards and codes in your region. Inner faults may exist that were missed by us. Please always consult with a certified professional before installing any electrical items.