Rare “Watapunga” table lamp by Ingo Maurer & Dagmar Mombach, 1998

Rare “Watapunga” table lamp by Ingo Maurer & Dagmar Mombach, 1998

This exceptional Watapunga table lamp, designed in 1998 by Ingo Maurer in collaboration with Dagmar Mombach, is a poetic example of late-20th-century experimental lighting design. Sculptural yet delicate, the lamp embodies Maurer’s distinctive approach: transforming light into an emotional, almost floating presence rather than a purely functional object.

The shade is crafted from finely structured paper, subtly wrapped to create an organic, softly undulating form. When illuminated, it emits a warm, atmospheric glow that enhances the lamp’s ethereal character. A key feature is the adjustable aluminium reflector, allowing the light to be directed and modulated, adding both functionality and visual tension to the design.

The lamp is constructed using a refined combination of paper, metal, silicone, glass, aluminium, and a steel base, highlighting Maurer’s mastery of mixing fragile and industrial materials. The slender vertical structure gives the impression of weightlessness, while the solid steel base anchors the piece with understated strength.

Highly sought after and increasingly rare, the Watapunga lamp is considered a collectible design icon, ideal for discerning collectors of postmodern and contemporary lighting, as well as for interiors that value sculptural presence and intellectual design.

Details

Designer: Ingo Maurer & Dagmar Mombach
Model: Watapunga
Year: 1998
Origin: Germany
Materials: Paper, metal, silicone, glass, aluminium, steel
Features: Adjustable reflector

Dimensions: Height: 110 cm (43.3 in) x Diameter: 14 cm (5.5 in)

Condition: Excellent vintage condition (minor age-appropriate wear consistent with careful use)

Ingo Maurer (1932–2019)

One of the most influential lighting designers of the 20th and early 21st centuries, Ingo Maurer was renowned for his radical, poetic approach to light. Often described as a “lighting artist,” Maurer blurred the boundaries between design, art, and engineering. His works are represented in major museum collections worldwide, including MoMA and the Vitra Design Museum, and are celebrated for their wit, innovation, and emotional resonance.

Dagmar Mombach

Dagmar Mombach collaborated closely with Ingo Maurer on numerous experimental lighting projects during the 1990s. Her work focused on material exploration, form, and the interplay between light and structure. Together, Maurer and Mombach created designs that pushed beyond conventional lighting, emphasizing movement, fragility, and atmosphere—qualities that are clearly embodied in the Watapunga lamp.

The Watapunga will be shipped insured overseas in a custom made wooden crate. Cost of transport to the US, Euro 275, is crate included.

Colors may slightly vary due to photographic lighting sources or your monitor settings.

 Wear consistent with age and use.

We ship worldwide.

Pick-up by appointment only.

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