Yellow Perforated Tripod Table Lamp, probably Dutch, 1950s

A petite table or bedside lamp from the golden age of mid-century lighting. The tapering conical shade is pierced with a regular pattern of round perforations that throw a scattered, star-field glow when lit, and retains its original warm yellow lacquer with a painted interior to reflect the light.

The shade sits on a painted spherical boss above a splayed tripod of three fine white-lacquered legs, each ending in a solid brass ball foot — the playful, spindly silhouette that earned this family of lamps its “Pinocchio” nickname. It has been rewired in period twisted fabric flex and inline toggle switch.

The type descends from the perforated-shade tripod lamps popular in the Netherlands through the 1950s, of the kind associated with the Hala Zeist factory.

Honest, characterful condition commensurate with age: some minor losses and flaking to the yellow lacquer, chiefly around the lower rim, and gentle patina to the brass — all consistent with sympathetic period use.