Timberline table lamp – Gubi

The Timberline table lamp, designed by Mads Caprani in the 1970s and published by Danish brand Gubi, is a compact, iconic version of the famous floor lamp of the same name. Inspired by the limits of high-altitude trees, this lamp embodies the playful, organic aesthetic of Scandinavian design in the 1970s. Its sculptural allure and intimate light make it a favorite among design enthusiasts.

Design and features

The Timberline table lamp is distinguished by its swan-neck silhouette, echoing Caprani's signature question mark shape. Measuring approximately H50 x W30 x Ø30 cm and weighing 2.5 kg, it features a bentwood column formed from nine layers of varnished oak and birch, anchored in a crescent-shaped cast-iron base for optimum stability. The adjustable, pleated fabric shade allows light to be precisely directed, creating a warm, focused ambience.

The lamp juxtaposes the softness of wood and the strength of iron, evoking the boundary between forest and rock. A central groove conceals the cable, preserving the fluidity of the silhouette. Fitted with an E14 LED bulb (not included), it provides light for a variety of uses. The design combines playfulness and elegance: the organic curves contrast with the rigor of the base, while the pleated shade softens the whole. This approach reflects Caprani's vision of fusing functionality and visual storytelling.

Background and heritage

Mads Caprani, born Micheli Alessio Caprani in Copenhagen in 1942, grew up in a tumultuous period, marked by the Second World War. His father, an active resistance fighter, moved the family to escape the Nazis. After the war, they settled in Frederiksberg, where music became central: his father played piano, and Mads led a jazz band. Trained as an electrician and then electrical engineer, Caprani joined Louis Poulsen, working with the likes of Arne Jacobsen, Poul Henningsen and Verner Panton, forging his design sensibility.

In 1977, he joined the Rotaflex lamp factory, purchased by his father, and took over the management of Caprani Light in 1979, transforming the company into a global benchmark with branches in Europe and the USA. The Timberline table lamp, derived from the best-selling floor lamp nicknamed the “Caprani lamp”, was born in this context of international ambition, where Caprani explored organic forms inspired by nature. Compared to the floor lamp, the table version is distinguished by its compactness, while retaining the iconic curve of the question mark. Until his death in 2014, Caprani left his mark on design through his ability to create objects that were both accessible and sculptural.

Edition by Gubi

Gubi, a Danish company founded in 1967, is renowned for faithfully reissuing classics while adapting them to modern standards. The Timberline table lamp, relaunched after decades, illustrates this commitment. Manufactured using advanced techniques - laminated bent wood, cast iron, pleated fabric - it retains Caprani's original spirit while incorporating improvements such as replaceable components and simplified assembly. Available in timeless finishes, it can be integrated into offices, living rooms or bedrooms, embodying Gubi's vision for designs that are both poetic and functional.

Gubi: a design vision shaped by nostalgia, innovation and contemporary elegance

A Danish brand with eclectic influences

Gubi is a renowned Danish design house known for blending heritage, modernity and a spirit of exploration. Founded in 1967, the brand stands out through its bold approach combining reissued classics, contemporary creations and rediscovered designers from past decades. The result is a rich and coherent aesthetic that transcends trends.

Iconic collaborations and a talent for rediscovery

Gubi brings renewed attention to historic designers such as Greta M. Grossman, Mathieu Mategot and Jacques Adnet, while also partnering with contemporary creators including GamFratesi and Space Copenhagen. This duality forms a unique identity, mixing nostalgia and modernity, where each piece carries a meaningful story.

An elegant, sensual and graphic aesthetic

The Gubi style is defined by soft curves, luxurious materials and refined tones. The brand explores brass, velvet, leather, blown glass, wood and other noble materials to create warm and sophisticated atmospheres. The silhouettes feel graphic, sensual and subtly theatrical.

A complete collection for contemporary interiors

The Gubi catalog includes chairs, armchairs, tables, lighting, mirrors, accessories and iconic twentieth century designs. Each piece integrates naturally into modern homes, hotels, restaurants or eclectic interiors. The Gubi universe transforms spaces into elegant and expressive environments.

Innovation, quality and exquisite detailing

Gubi places strong emphasis on material quality, comfort and craftsmanship. Every item is built to last and offers a rich sensory experience through refined textures, deep visual contrasts and balanced proportions. Innovation is present in each design while remaining faithful to Scandinavian simplicity.

Conclusion: bold, timeless and expressive Danish design

Gubi offers a distinctive vision where past and present meet with grace and creativity. Its pieces are refined, expressive and durable. Choosing Gubi means bringing artistic identity, character and contemporary elegance into everyday interiors.