Scandinavian Studio Table Lamp in Carved Bone with Symbolic Decoration, c. 1950s–1970s

A truly singular studio object — a table lamp base carved from a single large bone shaped into a dramatically tapered, twisting form that rises from a broad base to a slender neck. The natural material gives the piece an immediate sculptural presence, its creamy ivory surface marked by the organic variations and textures inherent to the material.

Down one face of the bone, a series of small symbolic motifs have been burned or incised — primitive, almost runic in character, evoking cave paintings or ancient script. Their meaning is unknown, which only adds to the mysterious and intriguing nature of the piece. The initials “EPL” are marked near the base, likely the maker’s signature. The bone is mounted on a square base faced with birch veneer, giving it a warm, natural foundation.

The lamp is in good working order, fitted with a rocker switch at the top of the stem. The bone has a thin crack consistent with age and the natural behaviour of the material, and a small piece of the birch veneer is missing from the base — both visible in the photos and neither affecting the stability or presence of the piece. The white fabric shade shown is not included.