Floor lamp model 2599 'China hat'

Designed by Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn

Sweden, 1950s

Floor lamp model 2599, affectionately known as the “China Hat,” stands among Josef Frank’s most imaginative lighting designs for Svenskt Tenn. Created in the late 1930s and produced through the mid-20th century, the lamp exemplifies Frank’s signature synthesis of playfulness and refinement. Three gracefully arched arms emerge from a slender, black-lacquered stem, each culminating in a pleated conical shade rendered in bold primary colours—blue, red, and yellow.

Its silhouette evokes traditional East Asian headwear, a subtle cultural reference infused with Frank’s characteristic lightness of touch. The composition balances sculptural dynamism with elegant restraint, enhanced by polished brass accents that lend warmth and sophistication. More than a source of illumination, the lamp embodies Frank’s philosophy of “humanist modernism”—where design serves both function and delight.

This model remains highly sought after among collectors of Scandinavian modern lighting for its distinct personality and enduring charm. Original wiring and sockets should be checked for safety compliance; rewiring is recommended. Shades may be restored or replaced with period-accurate reproductions to preserve authenticity and visual harmony.