Modeline of California: Pioneer of Modern Lighting

Author:   Nick Ferrell
Publisher:   Schiffer Publishing Ltd
ISBN:  

9780764370281


Pages:   224
Publication Date:   28 January 2026
Format:   Hardback
Availability:   Not yet available   Availability explained
This item is yet to be released. You can pre-order this item and we will dispatch it to you upon its release.

Our Price $130.00 Quantity:  
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Modeline of California: Pioneer of Modern Lighting


Overview

A detailed, never-before-told history of the Modeline Lamp Company, including photographs and exploring its designs, influence on modern lighting, and the stories behind its enduring legacy. Readers step into the captivating history of Modeline, the brand that revolutionized interior lighting with its stunning midcentury modern designs. Richly illustrated and captivatingly written, Modeline of California: Pioneer of Modern Lighting unveils the yet-untold story of Bernie Roberts and his journey from a penniless machinist to the founder of a company that defined a generation of design. From its roots in postwar class struggle to its influence on modern marketing and celebrity culture, Modeline of California is an indispensable resource for enthusiasts of architecture, interior design, and cultural history. This book covers the drama, creativity, and innovation that made Modeline a wellspring of influence, shaping both the modern design movement of the 1950s and today's mainstream lighting trends. Key Features: . Exclusive historical insights: Reveals the origins of modern lighting and Modeline's role in defining midcentury modern design . Celebrity connections: Readers learn of Modeline's influence on Hollywood set decorators, movie stars, and even Muhammad Ali's connection to the end of Modeline's reign . Over 250 high-quality images: Features previously unreleased photos and designs showcasing Modeline's unique syle . Cultural impact: Explores Modeline's legacy in shaping the furniture and lighting industries . Fascinating narratives: Engaging stories of union clashes, Hollywood connections, and postwar innovation that still shapes the modern world in various domains . Author's expertise: Written by the foremost authority on Modeline and midcentury modern lighting, who has spent years documenting the history shared by Modeline's original families and designers A riveting volume that exhumes the legacy of Modeline and uncovers dramatic and pertinent history. Readers can discover why Modeline's timeless designs still captivate collectors and worldwide design enthusiasts today. AUTHOR: Nick Ferrell is a collector, restorer, and historian of mid-20th-century lighting whose exhaustive research into the history of 20th-century lighting manufacturers has made him the “expert on call” for hundreds of dealers throughout the United States. As the owner of Esthetic Vintage, he has handled tens of thousands of lamps and developed an unparalleled ability to ascertain a lamp's manufacturer, designer, and period. He lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee. 167 colour, 85 b/w images

Full Product Details

Author:   Nick Ferrell
Publisher:   Schiffer Publishing Ltd
Imprint:   Schiffer Publishing Ltd
Weight:   0.045kg
ISBN:  

9780764370281


ISBN 10:   0764370286
Pages:   224
Publication Date:   28 January 2026
Audience:   General/trade ,  General
Format:   Hardback
Publisher's Status:   Forthcoming
Availability:   Not yet available   Availability explained
This item is yet to be released. You can pre-order this item and we will dispatch it to you upon its release.

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Author Information

Nick Ferrell is a collector, restorer, and historian of mid-20th-century lighting whose exhaustive research into the history of 20th-century lighting manufacturers has made him the “expert on call” for hundreds of dealers throughout the United States. As the owner of Esthetic Vintage, he has handled tens of thousands of lamps and developed an unparalleled ability to ascertain a lamp’s manufacturer, designer, and period. He lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

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