PH 5-4½ & PH 6½-6
The three-shade lighting system was developed in 1925–1926 by Danish designer Poul Henningsen, with the first lamps created for an exhibition in Paris. His collaboration with Louis Poulsen continued throughout his life, until his death in 1967.
Henningsen’s goal was to create glare-free lighting that directed illumination precisely where needed while producing soft, comfortable shadows. Using incandescent bulbs, he developed a scientific approach to light, shaping his designs according to the logarithmic spiral to ensure even light distribution and optimal visual comfort.
In 1931, Henningsen expanded this concept with the introduction of the four-shade system. This design was intended for fixtures mounted at greater heights, offering an alternative to traditional chandeliers. Compared to the three-shade system, the four-shade version increased horizontal light distribution, improving illumination on walls and shelves—particularly useful in larger spaces.
The four-shade system was removed from the standard Louis Poulsen range in the 1940s but was later revived and reinterpreted in 1979 by Danish architects Sophus Frandsen and Ebbe Christensen. Their redesign was created for the Charlottenborg in Copenhagen, resulting in a larger version known as the PH 6½/6.
To further reduce glare, the architects introduced a small blue shade element and refined the finish with a matte, white-painted surface. These adjustments created a softer, more uniform light, making the fixture especially suitable for museums, exhibition spaces, and rooms with high ceilings.
A smaller version, the PH 5/4½, was later developed in 1984 for the Aarhus Concert Hall, demonstrating the continued evolution and adaptability of Henningsen’s lighting principles.
Light concept
The trumpet-shaped top shade on the fixture provides illumination of the area above the three shades, which primarily direct the light downwards. A base reflector and a blue glare ring protect against glare from all angles. The strongest light is directly under the fixture. The shades have a matt white painted finish to ensure very comfortable lighting.
Product details
Light source 1x70W E27
Other information
Material: White matt lacquered aluminium. Canopy: Yes Cord length: 3 m Cord type: White fabric
Size & measurements
Size (mm): 466 (width) x 318 (Height) x 466 (Length)
Weight:5.6 kg
Mounting
PH 5-4½ (E27):
3 m. 3 x 0.75mm² cord.
Canopy included.
PH 5-4½ (LED): 4 m. 2 x 1.5 mm² cord.
LED canopy with driver included.
PH 6½-6 (LED):
4 m. 2 x 1 mm² cord and wire.
LED canopy or external driver box with driver included.
Maximum distance between external driver box and fixture: 20 m.
