Lighting1958
PH 5
Design Object · Pendant lamp
PH 5
Poul Henningsen’s pendant, introduced in 1958 in response to changing bulb shapes and sizes. It is based on his three-shade system.
Record
| Object type | Pendant lamp[s1] |
|---|---|
| Designer | Poul Henningsen[s1] |
| Manufacturer | Louis Poulsen[s1] |
| Original year | 1958[s1] |
| Country | Denmark[s1] |
| Materials | Aluminium[s1] |
| Dimensions | W 500 × H 267 × L 500 mm[s1] |
| Series | PH[s1] |
| Model | PH 5[s1] |
| Production status | In production[s1] |
| Specification scope | Current EU PH 5 catalogue size.[s1] |
Design history & editions
Sources consulted 3 September 2026. This date applies to these notes, not a fresh verification of every inherited specification.
Designed around a changing light bulb
PH 5 was introduced in 1958 as Henningsen's response to changing incandescent-bulb shapes and sizes. The objective was to control the visible light source rather than depend on one particular bulb geometry. Louis Poulsen traces the design to his reflective three-shade system; the name should not be read as a simple count of five shades. [1]
Reflection, diffusion and colour
Most light is directed downward, with lateral light illuminating the pendant itself. The lower diffuser moderates the downward light. Early red and blue elements were intended to modify the colour of incandescent light; the manufacturer says these were removed from later designs as light sources changed. That is a documented alteration, not evidence that every production year shares the same interior. [1]
Models and editions
| Model / edition | What distinguishes it |
|---|---|
| PH 5 | The full-size pendant is the object of this record. Its current catalogue lists metal finishes with differing shade materials; one material description cannot cover every finish. [1] |
| PH 5 Mini | Introduced in 2017, with a top shade approximately 30 cm across. It follows the earlier design but is a distinct later model, not a 1958 specimen. [2] |
What this record does not establish
The table describes the recorded current EU size, not a particular vintage lamp. This entry does not date the removal of the coloured elements, authenticate a specimen or establish electrical compatibility. Consult the selected variant's technical sheet for fitting and light-source requirements.
Evidence for these notes
- Louis Poulsen · PH 5
Manufacturer · Design history, light distribution and material changes
- Louis Poulsen · PH 5 Mini
Manufacturer · Mini introduction and 300 mm variant
Availability
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