Pair of Japanese Satin Glass + Brass Sconces Attributed to Noboru Nakamura, 1950s

A pair of Japanese satin glass and brass sconces from the 1950s, defined by elongated shades and a precise arrangement of metal fittings. Each glass shade widens gently through the center before tapering at either end, creating a softly bowed silhouette. 

The satin surface gives the glass a milky appearance when unlit, becoming a warm, diffused glow when illuminated. Narrow black caps finish the top and bottom, giving definition to the pale form.

A tall rectangular brass backplate extends beyond the shade, emphasizing the sconces’ vertical proportions. Short projecting fittings hold the glass away from the wall, introducing depth and allowing light to spread behind it. Below each shade, a slender metal stem ends in a brass sphere and an open rectangular loop with rounded corners. Above, a small pointed brass finial completes the composition. 

The attribution to Noboru Nakamura introduces an interesting connection to Japanese and Scandinavian design. Born in Hokkaido in 1938, Nakamura later studied furniture design in Stockholm, where he developed an approach informed by Scandinavian craftsmanship and functional simplicity. He went on to work as a designer for IKEA before returning to Japan in 1978 to establish Furniture Design Nacka. His career reflects a dialogue between Japanese restraint and Scandinavian modernism, a sensibility echoed in the sconces' measured proportions and thoughtful use of materials.

Placed on either side of a mirror, the pair creates a balanced setting above a console. Flanking a doorway or arranged along a living room wall, their long profiles introduce a measured rhythm of light.

About Noboru Nakamura
Noboru Nakamura (1938-2023) was a Japanese furniture designer recognized for his thoughtful approach to form, function, and craftsmanship. Born in Hokkaido, Japan, Nakamura moved to Sweden to study furniture design, graduating from Carl Malmsten's workshop school in Stockholm in 1970. He continued his studies at Konstfack before beginning his professional career at a Swedish design studio. His work reflects the influence of Scandinavian modernism, combining clean lines, natural materials, and an appreciation for traditional woodworking techniques.

Nakamura became the first Japanese designer to work as an exclusive design consultant for IKEA, with his first design for IKEA in 1975, contributing to the company's development of functional, accessible furniture. Returning to Japan in 1978, he established Furniture Design Nacka, focusing primarily on wooden furniture characterized by restrained silhouettes and careful attention to proportion. Alongside his design practice, Nakamura taught furniture design at Hokkaido University, sharing his knowledge of craftsmanship and the relationship between Japanese and Scandinavian design traditions.