The French maison Arlus was known for its elegant lighting pieces that balanced craftsmanship with modernity. This sculptural pair of wall lights offers a clear example of that post-war refinement, light fittings where form and material meet with quiet confidence.

Design

Each light features a vertically mounted teak spine with a slightly curved, tapering silhouette, its profile reminiscent of mid-century architectural fin forms. From this wooden core extends a brass fitting that holds a cylindrical opaline plexiglass diffuser. The contrast between the warm teak, the golden brass, and the milky-white shades creates a sense of rhythm and depth, both when lit and unlit. The soft translucency of the diffusers ensures a warm, ambient light, while the pointed brass finials on top lend a graphic verticality to the composition. The teak element appears to be solid and finished in a dark stain that complements the brass beautifully.

Though the exact designer of this model remains uncertain, it is in keeping with other Arlus designs from the 1950s, often attributed to in-house talent influenced by the sober elegance of French modernism. Pieces like these were typically produced in small runs, intended for private residences or boutique interiors. This pair could work equally well flanking a mirror, adorning a hallway, or adding rhythm to a living space.

Condition

The lights are in very good condition. Minor wear to the brass and surface of the teak is consistent with age and use. The diffusers are clean and undamaged.