Inspiration: Serge Mouille

Serge Mouille was a French industrial designer and silversmith working in the 1940’s and 50’s best known, and rightfully so, for his collection of black metal lighting. The collection started with the three-arm floor lamp, and branched out into sconces, chandeliers and table lamps comprised of the signature long bent arms, sweeping lines and organic lamp heads, influenced by musculature and skeletons. The designs were a departure from anything else being designed at the time, and continue to be featured in high-end interiors today. 

Interior by Raiana Schwenker

Day Birger et Mikkelsen via Lonny Mag

Designs are sold through Design Within Reach, but the price tags leave many looking for a similar look elsewhere. The only reproduction seems to be the one by White on White/Organic Modernism, but the influence is plentiful in other designs.

Jason Koharik is a designer and craftsman working in Echo Park, California who has definitely nailed the spirit of Mouille lighting with hairpin-like arms and more rounded lamp heads.  

David Weeks has also interpreted the organic shapes, incorporating chrome arms for a slightly more modern feel.

More subtle influences can be found as well. Some more affordable alternatives with a definite Mouille influence:

Bruno Collection from Lamps Plus

New York light from Bodie and Fou

Ikea PS 2012 light