MA DESIGNS — FOUNDERS EDITION

Ottilie

This lamp was originally the Decorlume, designed by Paul Boissevain, it was exhibited at the 1951 Festival of Britain. The Ottilie is available as a Founders Edition. Ottilie is named for my niece, therefore the history spans 5 generations.

Designed and made in the UK, using artisan makers, including the shade fashioned from spun aluminium, by the same craftsmen as the original Merchant Adventures used.

The Ottilie is customisable

  • The Shade

    Matt White, Rose Gold, Brass, clear lacquer (silver)

  • The Stem

    Ash in light stain, mid brown, dark brown

  • Base

    Rose Gold, Brass, clear

  • Base veneer

    African Walnut, American Cherry, Ash, Maple

The story

Very much a family business The Merchant Adventurers was founded and run by Antoinette and Daniel Boissevain, at 190 Church Road in Kensington in 1922. The business was originally imported glassware, pottery and bric-a-brac from France, The Netherlands and Germany. As the war loomed in the 1930s, they turned their attention to lighting. By this point, Walter, their eldest son joined the business, soon to be followed by Paul and Roland.

What followed was remarkable success and iconic mid-century designs, that today still stand the test of time.

An extensive collection of lights, designed and made in Britain by artisan craftsman, won awards and were exhibited at the 1951 Festival of Britain on the South Bank in London and the Milan Triennale of 1954. Eventually after 60 years, the business was sold in 1986. Now, 40 years later, that sought after legacy continues through their great grandson, Joe Boissevain

  • 1922

    Founded in Kensington, London

  • 1952

    Exhibited at the Festival of Britain

  • 1986

    The business is sold

  • Today

    Revived by great-grandson Joe

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