Modernist floor lamp attributed to Josep Puig i Cadafalch, ca. 1890.

Modernist floor lamp attributed to JOSEP PUIG I CADAFALCH (Mataró, 1867- Barcelona, 1958), ca. 1890.
Wrought iron and polychrome.
Parchment lampshade.
Electrified.
Exhibits wear consistent with age and use.
Measurements: 205 x 60 x 60 cm.

With monumental dimensions, this Art Nouveau lamp attributed to the master Josep Puig i Cadafalch is not only a functional object, but an authentic luminous sculpture, conceived to preside over interior spaces and exemplify the modernist ideal of integration between art, craftsmanship and daily life. It responds in its entirety to the savoir faire of Puig i Cadafalch, who is now remembered as one of the great names of Catalan modernism.

Modernist floor lamp, an outstanding example of the decorative language of Art Nouveau applied to the iron arts. The structure is made of wrought iron and polychrome, worked with great technical virtuosity. The central shaft adopts a helical shape, which reinforces the sensation of organic ascent so characteristic of modernism. From it develops a rich ornamentation of vegetal and floral motifs, visible both in the upper arms and in the base, where the curvilinear elements open like stems and leaves in expansion.

The parchment shade, with its convex profile, is harmoniously integrated into the ensemble by means of a metal frame decorated with stylized leaves and small floral motifs, creating a delicate interplay between the filtered light and the vegetal silhouette of the lamp. The warm tone of the parchment contrasts with the patinas of the iron, accentuating its ornamental character.

The tripod base, with its curved lines and open supports, ensures stability while prolonging the organic rhythm of the design. The piece has been electrified, adapting it to its contemporary use, and exhibits wear consistent with age and use, reinforcing its authenticity and historical value.

As an architect, Puig i Cadafaclh was a disciple of Lluís Domènech i Montaner, and is considered the last representative of modernism and the first of noucentisme. He began his career within the modernist style of his training, revealing in works such as the Amatller, Martí, Terradas or de les Punxes houses a certain Nordic influence. After this first period, developed between 1895 and 1905, he evolved towards a language that could be defined as rational idealism, based on the tastes of the new haute bourgeoisie, which crystallizes in buildings designed with a more rational and practical criterion, as exemplified by the Trinxet, Muntades and Company houses. Finally, his period of maturity is monumentalist, and develops around the preparation of the Barcelona International Exhibition of 1929, of which Puig i Cadafalch was the main architect. It is now inspired by Roman architecture, although it also incorporates elements typical of Valencia and Andalusia, resulting in an attractive neo-baroque style. In parallel, he also showed great interest in American architecture, and even designed the Pich House inspired by Louis Henry Sullivan. He also developed an important work as an art historian. During the Civil War he went into exile in Paris, and there he devoted himself mainly to teaching architecture and history, being named doctor honoris causa by several universities, including Paris. On his return the new regime did not allow him to work as an architect, so he devoted himself to the restoration of historic buildings.