Large Carved Oak Wall Light
Antonín Hepnar, C. 1980

Description:

A vintage Czech wall light in oak designed and made by Antonín Hepnar, circa 1980. The lamp is made of solid wood which has been turned to create asymmetrically spaced concentric rings -similar to how rings emanate from a stone dropped into water. The precise way in which the rings have been carved not only accentuates the natural grain of the pine but distorts it. Resultantly, although the wood and its treatment are the only features of the lamp the overall look and feel of the piece is one connected to geometry and op-art.
The materials traditionally associated with the Czech Republic are glass and porcelain. However, Hepar has worked almost exclusively in turned wood since the 1950s. Hepar’s choice of material in combination with his unique approach and the predominance of the Iron Curtain have resulted in his name remaining somewhat obscure. However, Hepnar continues to be one of the most experienced woodworkers in the Czech Republic. His technical experience and background has led to him being approached by a number of architects and designers. Perhaps most sensationally, Hepnar was asked to work on some wooden interior elements of the legendary Hotel Praha. 
The diverse monumental, modernist inspired new baroque lathed shapes of his work in the 1970s & 80s can be seen on his unique lights such as this one and became the trademark of his work. The light is stickered by Hepnar and in excellent condition. Only 5 lamps of this design were ever made for gallery Dílo, Prague, circa 1980.

Specifications:

Diameter: 55 cm
Depth: 13 cm