Lampe Gras 222 wall light, black/raw copper – DCW

A patina full of character: Lampe Gras 222 wall light in black and raw copper by DCW

Note on the raw copper finish: The lampshade is supplied brand new and has not yet developed a patina on receipt. As it has not been exposed to the air prior to dispatch, the natural patina will only begin to form once the light has been unpacked and exposed to the air.

The raw copper finish is untreated and only develops its characteristic, natural copper look over time. The copper oxidises, causing it to change colour. The surface may also change naturally through touch, resulting in a unique finish.

Moisture – for example, from cooking or rainwater – as well as temperature and other environmental factors influence the oxidation process. It is therefore not possible to determine exactly how quickly the patina will develop. The surface of the raw copper may begin to darken visibly after as little as 14 days.

The Lampe Gras 222 wall light is a 20th-century icon. Its roots date back to 1922, when Bernard-Albin Gras put his first designs on paper. Originally developed for offices and industrial applications, the range impressed with its simple, robust yet ergonomic design. The basic construction required no screws or welded joints.

The lights in DCW’s Lampe Gras range epitomise the fusion of functionalism and aesthetics. In particular, the design of individual details such as the arms, body, fittings and the assembly of the components demonstrate a well-considered originality that was far ahead of its time. Le Corbusier was fascinated by the modern design of the Lampe Gras lights from an early stage and incorporated them into his projects.

Today, the lights from the Lampe Gras series are sought-after collector’s items worldwide, particularly in France, the USA and Japan. Bernard-Albin Gras’s talented and visionary design has proved timeless and continues to shape the series’ characteristic design language to this day.

Tip on patination: If you wish to speed up the oxidation process of the raw copper, you can place the lampshade outdoors in the shade for a few days, ensuring it is well protected. The surface should be shielded from direct sunlight.