Modernity is pleased to announce an upcoming exhibition dedicated to the lighting designs of Danish designer Poul Henningsen (1894–1967), one of the most influential figures in twentieth- century design. The exhibition brings together a focused selection of table lamps, pendants, wall lights, and ceiling fixtures, tracing Henningsen’s systematic approach to light, form, and visual comfort.
Developed from the 1920s onwards, Henningsen’s lighting designs were grounded in rigorous research into glare-free illumination. His now-iconic multi-shade systems were not conceived as stylistic gestures, but as precise tools for controlling light distribution, shielding the light source from direct view while directing light where it was needed. These principles determined the form, proportions, and overall construction of each lamp.
The exhibition highlights both well-known and less frequently encountered models produced by the Danish lighting manufacturer Louis Poulsen, illustrating the evolution of Henningsen’s ideas from early experimental designs to mature solutions for domestic, institutional, and public interiors. Alongside iconic works such as the PH Artichoke and classic lamps like the PH 4/3, the selection includes designs developed for specific contexts, including the Tivoli lamp and the PH 2/2 Piano Lamp. Later architectural models such as the PH Plate ‘Tallerken’ pendant, designed in 1958, reflect Henningsen’s move towards simplified, efficient lighting solutions for large public interiors, notably at the Langelinie Pavilion in Copenhagen, where it was installed alongside the PH Artichoke pendant.
The exhibition focuses on Henningsen’s systematic approach to lighting, in which control of light takes precedence over decoration. By appointment: https://www.modernity.se/magazine/poul-henningsen
| Hours | By Appointment |
| Venue | Modernity |
| Type | Exhibition |
| Duration | By Appointment |
| City | London |
About
Modernity
Modernity specialises in the collection and sale of rare and high-grade furniture, ceramics, glass, lighting and jewellery by the most renowned Nordic designers of the 20th century. Our large collection includes design classics by Hans Wegner, Finn Juhl, Arne Jacobsen Alvar Aalto, Axel Salto, Berndt Friberg – to name a few – but we are also proud to present outstanding unique pieces. With a strong emphasis on post-war design, Modernity has throughout the years established itself as one of the leading galleries in northern Europe.
