Vintage table lamp chess bishop figure by Ivan Jakes for Valašské Meziříčí, Czechoslovakia 1970

The collection of chess figure lamps was designed by Ivan Jakeš (Czech sculptor, painter, master ceramist and industrial artist) in the 1970s and produced for Osvetlovací Sklo in Valašské Mezirící. They are often characterized as striking sculptures rather than utilitarian products. His first designs date from September 1970 and were produced in 1971. On a smaller scale, they were presented at the Swedish fair in Gothenburg in 1972. The author himself recalls that these lamps were often used as props in many Czechoslovakian films, often used as interior decoration for bourgeois villains. The lamps were mainly designed for Sweden where the winters were long and dark, and these lamps offered a perfect warm light. This explains the main color combination: orange, yellow or red glassware. The bishop lamp is made of opal glass in a beautiful milk white color. The lamp has a wonderful shape and gives a warm and soft light. Works on a single bulb, European plug.