PH 3½-3 Pale Rose Brass Pendant
The System PH was developed by Poul Henningsen to provide efficient, comfortable, and completely glare-free lighting for the home, at a time when electric light was beginning to replace candle chandeliers and kerosene lamps in the late 1920s. Despite this ambition, it was initially commercial and public spaces that embraced the highly functional and ultramodern PH lamps. In private homes, traditional chandeliers—now electrified and fitted with silk shades—remained the preferred choice above the dining table.
Henningsen sought to demonstrate that his reflective PH three-shade system could recreate the warm, intimate atmosphere of kerosene lighting without compromising on light quality. At the time, many people desired a softer and more comfortable glow than early electric bulbs could provide. While silk shades helped diffuse the light and create ambience, they did so at the expense of efficiency and clarity.
Recognizing this gap, Henningsen and Louis Poulsen saw an opportunity to reintroduce high-quality lighting to domestic interiors. Around 1930, Louis Poulsen launched an extensive new series of PH lamps specifically designed for home use. These models were often smaller, more adaptable, and more affordable than earlier designs, making them accessible to a wider audience.
To enhance warmth and individuality in the home, the new series was offered in a variety of finishes, including amber, red, and yellow glass, alongside classic opal white, matte, and metal variants. The collection proved to be a major success.
The PH 3½-3 Pale Rose Brass Pendant reflects both this heritage and contemporary preferences, where discreet yet precise lighting combined with a cosy atmosphere is highly valued. Henningsen had a particular affinity for the pale rose tint, appreciating how it could subtly transform both the appearance of the lamp and the character of its light. Around the same period, he developed a delicate variation of the seven-shade PH Septima, known as the Rosa Septima. Decades later, he revisited this gentle hue in the iconic PH Artichoke, applying it to the inner surfaces of its copper leaves.
Today, the proportions of the PH 3½-3 Pale Rose Brass Pendant make it exceptionally versatile, suitable for a wide range of interiors. Its soft curves and distinctive three-shade silhouette are enhanced by the pale rose glass, crisp edges, and a white textile cord. While striking as a standalone piece, it becomes even more impactful when installed in a series—where, even unlit, the glossy surface of the mouth-blown Italian glass reflects its surroundings beautifully.
As in the original designs from around 1930, the pendant features a refined brass suspension that will naturally develop a patina over time, adding depth and character. For those who prefer to maintain its original finish, the brass can be gently polished as needed.
Light concept
The fixture is based on Poul Henningsen’s renowned three-shade system and reflects the light downwards, while also emitting a soft glow around itself. The pale rose coloured mouth-blown opal glass shades are glossy on top and sandblasted matt opal white underneath, which results in a gentle and poetic light.
Product details
Light source 1x60W E27
Other information
Mouth-blown four-layered pale rose coloured glass with a white sandblasted underside. Brass, brushed and untreated with fine hairlines. Cord length: 3.2 m. Cord type: White textile. Canopy: Yes.
Size & measurements
Size (mm): 327 (width) x 219 (Height) x 327 (Length)
Weight:5.1 kg
Mounting
3 m. White textile cord.
Canopy included.
