Antique Table Lamps
Although a lot of table lamps are being manufactured in the United States every day, nothing can ever beat the look and feel of an antique table lamp. Not only can they serve their purpose of producing light, they also have aesthetic value that no lamps manufactured today can ever achieve.
There are two main styles of antique table lamps, and these are the Victorian (1880-1900) and Art Nouveau (1895-1920).
Table lamps from the Victorian period are usually made with a short metal pedestal, a glass or metal base which is used for holding kerosene and a glass shade which sits on top of a metal mechanism used for controlling the wick. A clear glass chimney is surrounded by the shade, and also protrudes from it. Some of the most popular manufacturers for this kind of lamp included Phoenix, Fostoria, Fenton and Handel.
Art nouveau lamps, on the other hand, are all about form. They were made with curved lines and textured surfaces, such as those found in nature. Many of the lamps made during this period came from Daum Nancy and Lalique.
It all really depends on the overall look of the lamp, but most antique table lamps look great in rooms with rich texture. Rooms made of wood are also great for these lamps, as the warm feel of the materials is just perfect for the aged look of the lamp.
Looking for authentic antique table lamps can be a challenge. If you are new to collecting antique lamps, I suggest that you look at the lamp carefully and remember these points. First, take look at the base and the shade of the lamp. Do they have characteristics from the same historical periods? How about the motif, are they the same? Bases and shades were often sold separately, but they should look like they were made to be together. Some antique pieces have shades and bases from different periods, which sometimes make them look awkward together.
Second, you would need to take a look at the shade. Check for breaks and cracks if it’s glass or for completeness if the shade is made of beads or crystal fringe. Also look for the manufacturer’s mark or name to make sure that it is an authentic piece. Finally, look at the wiring or the burning mechanism in a kerosene lamp. Making sure that they are working properly ensures your safety, which is most important of all.
There are a few variations that you can find such as antique brass table lamps or bronze and so take a look at the different styles available. They really are a neat way to decorate an area of any room.
