Lampe Gras

Born in 1886, Bernard-Albin Gras was an engineer and inventor who wanted to solve various issues emerging from early 20th century advancements, including electric light. While growing in popularity, electric lamps were still stuck in their flame-based past - usually inconvenient, clumsy and potentially dangerous.

Gras developed a streamlined, highly useful solution: a collection of metal-armature-based table, floor and desk lamps that could be easily adapted to every purpose. Originally designed for office and industrial spaces, architects started using it in their residential designs. As such, the Gras lamp was the first lamp to be equally popular at work and home.

The Gras lamp was astounding at the time for its solid, ergonomic and highly innovative design. Amazingly, there are no screws or welded joints in its basic form. Its functional aesthetic was truly original and far ahead of its time, especially the details in the arms, stems, brackets and bases. Famed architect Le Corbusier celebrated the Gras lamp as an outstanding example of his approach to understated design.

In 1927, Bernard-Albin Gras sold the patent to a design company called Ravel, which started mass production. This combined with Le Corbusier's influence resulted in the many different styles of Gras lamp becoming an essential part of design studios, industrial spaces and homes around the world.

Ravel decided to stop production of the Gras lamp in 1970 due to declining sales caused by changing standards and tastes. Design enthusiasts and collectors continued to treasure this icon, and originals were in huge demand.

Thankfully, DCW Editions started producing the Gras lamp again in 2008. Today, it is available in a wide range of colors and variations, including floor and desk lamps, pendants and wall sconces. At home in practically every space and era, this veritable icon of task lighting still makes a strong, modern statement after more than a century.