A design becomes an icon when its clarity and presence remain undiminished across generations. Created at the Bauhaus in Weimar in 1924, the Wagenfeld lamp is now recognised worldwide as a symbol of modern design. Its harmonious proportions, the interplay of glass and metal, and its uncompromising reduction to the essential have made design history.
Yet originality is defined by more than a distinctive form. It is rooted in provenance, authorisation and a production process that remains faithful to the design in every detail.
Wilhelm Wagenfeld personally granted Walter Schnepel, founder of TECNOLUMEN, the licence to manufacture his celebrated lamp. To this day, TECNOLUMEN remains the only manufacturer worldwide producing the re-edition authorised by Professor Wilhelm Wagenfeld.
Each Wagenfeld lamp is crafted with exceptional care at the TECNOLUMEN manufactory in Bremen. Premium materials, details faithful to the original and an individual serial number make every lamp an authentic piece of design history – created to endure for generations.
The following characteristics distinguish an original Wagenfeld lamp by TECNOLUMEN from unauthorised reproductions. Before leaving the manufactory, every lamp is carefully inspected to ensure both electrical safety and the consistently high quality of its materials and finishes.
The lampholder is manufactured exclusively for TECNOLUMEN. One of its unmistakable features is the distinctive sleeve through which the pull cord passes. Its form, material and construction follow the specifications of the authorised re-edition.
In keeping with the historical original, the metal surfaces of an authentic Wagenfeld lamp are nickel-plated rather than chrome-plated. Over time, the material may develop a subtle, slightly yellowish patina. This lends each lamp an individual character and reflects the story of its use.
On the WG 24 and WG 25 GL models, the transparent stem and base are made from premium clear glass – never plastic. The shade of every Wagenfeld lamp is crafted from mouth-blown opal glass. Subtle variations resulting from this artisanal process make each piece unique.
The power cord is sheathed in black textile. It reflects the material language of the historical design and complements the lamp’s clear, understated form.
All components, as well as the lamp itself, are VDE type-tested and comply with current safety requirements. The corresponding markings on every lamp document this commitment to the highest technical standards.
On the WG 24, the cable is guided through a nickel-plated metal tube inside the transparent glass stem. This construction detail defines the lamp’s characteristic appearance and is one of the distinguishing features of the original.
The black pull cord of every original Wagenfeld lamp ends in a small nickel-plated ball. Connoisseurs and enthusiasts cherish not only the distinctive click as the lamp is switched on, but also the delicate, bright chime created when the ball gently touches the metal or glass stem. It is a sensory detail as unmistakably associated with the original as its form and materials.
Every original Wagenfeld lamp bears an individual serial number. The underside of the baseplate is marked TECNOLUMEN / BAUHAUS. This confirms its provenance and identifies it as the only re-edition worldwide authorised by Wilhelm Wagenfeld.
A Wagenfeld lamp by TECNOLUMEN is more than a source of light. It is an authentic testament to design history, made from enduring materials and created to accompany its owners for many years – and for generations to come.
Its serial number, meticulous craftsmanship and personal authorisation by Wilhelm Wagenfeld give it a provenance no copy can replicate. An original preserves not only the outward form of a design, but also its history, its principles and its cultural significance.
Should you have any questions regarding the authenticity or provenance of a Wagenfeld lamp, please do not hesitate to contact us.
