Poul Henningsen

Poul Henningsen (Known as "PH")

Lighting Designer, Architect, Cultural Critic, Satirist, Creator of the PH-Lamp Series

Born 1894-09-09

Ordrup, Denmark

Passed Away 1967-01-31 Hillerød, Denmark

Lifespan 72 years old

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"It doesn't cost money to light a room properly, but it requires culture and an understanding of human well-being."

Archival Overview

Brilliant Danish cultural critic, architect, and lighting pioneer known universally as 'PH', inventor of the multi-shade glare-free PH-lamp series and PH Artichoke.

Biographical Record

Poul Henningsen was born on September 9, 1894, in Ordrup, the son of author Agnes Henningsen. Studying architecture at the Technical College in Copenhagen, he was a fiery polemical critic of bourgeois conservatism, censorship, and poor urban planning.

Disturbed by the harsh glare of modern electric incandescent bulbs compared to the gentle kerosene lamps of his youth, Henningsen mathematically designed multi-shade lamps that direct light downward while shielding the naked bulb from direct view. His PH 5 lamp (1958) and magnificent PH Artichoke (1958) for the Langelinie Pavilion in Copenhagen became global design icons, while his satirical revues and anti-fascist songs championed free speech.

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Rest in Peace Forever remembered and cherished Your legacy lives on in all of us With deep gratitude for your life and light

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Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial

Bispebjerg Cemetery
Copenhagen, Denmark

                         GPS: 55.7142, 12.5358                    

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