Poul Henningsen (Danish, 1894–1967) was a writer, architect, and designer best known for his signature PH lamps. Born in Ordrup, Denmark, Henningsen trained at the Tekniske Skole in Copenhagen, and later studied architecture at the Polyteknisk Laeranstalt. After graduating, he freelanced as an architect and journalist, designing several houses and interiors, and developing a reputation as a sharp critic of conservative politics. In 1924, he created the first of his multi-shade lamps, and went on to win a gold medal at the Paris Exposition des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels a year later, where it was dubbed the "Paris lamp."

Working from the theory that the direct glare from an electric light source was detrimental to personal well-being, Henningsen created lamp shades out of separate elements, shaped and assembled in such a way that they covered the bulb, directing light downward, and creating a softer, more diffuse effect. In addition, Henningsen used different colored glass shades with frosted surfaces to minimize the amount of harsh white light emitted, and create a more golden hue.

Building on the success of the hanging lamp, Henningsen soon began producing table lamps, floor lamps, chandeliers, and wall-mounted lamps, with shades available in metal and glass in various colors.

Henningsen also served as the editor for the left-wing newspaper Kritisk Revy, and was an outspoken opponent of fascism. During the war, he was forced to flee to Sweden, but continued to write, producing a number of poems focusing on themes of resistance.

During the 1960s, Henningsen became a member of the Danish Academy.

Today, his designs can be found in numerous institutions around the world, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Designmuseum Danmark in Copenhagen.