Pottery Lamp and Shade by Martin Pettinger for Somerset (1960s) UK

Ceramic Table Lamp by Martin Pettinger for Somerset Pottery, England – 1960s

A distinctive ceramic table lamp designed by Martin Pettinger for Somerset Pottery. Produced during the 1960s, the lamp reflects the expressive approach to studio-influenced ceramics that became popular in Britain during the period.

The base has a softly bulbous, organic form with vertical fluting that gives the piece a sculptural presence even when unlit. The glaze is particularly striking, with flowing tones of green, blue and earthy brown running down the surface in a manner that emphasises the shape of the vessel. This layered glazing technique creates subtle variation across the piece, meaning each example has its own individual character.

The lamp has been paired with a simple linen shade that complements the earthy tones of the ceramic and allows the base to remain the focus of the design.

Both decorative and functional, it works beautifully as a warm accent lamp on a sideboard, console table or bedside.

Designer: Martin Pettinger

Martin Pettinger was a British ceramic designer associated with Somerset Pottery during the mid-twentieth century. His work reflects the influence of the post-war British studio pottery movement, which emphasised expressive glazing, tactile forms and an appreciation for natural materials. Rather than highly polished industrial finishes, designers working in this tradition embraced irregular textures and flowing glazes that highlighted the hand-crafted qualities of ceramics. Pettinger’s designs for Somerset Pottery combined these studio influences with practical domestic objects, creating pieces that feel both sculptural and approachable. His lamps and ceramic vessels remain appreciated today for their characterful forms and richly layered glazes.

28cm high including fitting