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Antique Hanging Lamp

M
7 months ago
AI Appraisal
Description

Antique or collectible hanging lamp. Found in antique/collectible shop in Maryland in the 90s. I was told it was from an estate sale. I never knew any history on it. I am wondering if anyone knows what type of lamp this is and the era it is from and possible value. It is approximately 3' in length and at top possibly 12 inches across, not sure, as it is in storage at this time. 

Category Lamps and Chandeliers
Medium not sure....bronze?
Condition Good
Size and dimensions of this item 3 feet x 1 foot ?
Weight heavy
History unknown
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Submitted by Charley

Item Overview

  • Type: Hanging Swag Lamp / Chandelier
  • Style: Hollywood Regency / Spanish Revival
  • Era: Circa 1960s to early 1970s
  • Dimensions: Approx. 3 feet long, 12 inches wide (estimate)
  • Material: Likely cast resin or spelter with applied antique bronze finish, adorned with faceted iridescent lucite or glass prisms
  • Chain: Heavy, decorative cast metal links (typical of mid-century swag lamps)
  • Condition: Good, intact prisms, consistent patina; rewiring may be needed for modern safety

🔍 Description & Analysis

This stunning piece is a vintage tiered hanging swag lamp, popular in mid-century American interiors. Its ornate appearance, featuring textured metal-like bodywork and dozens of multifaceted aurora borealis prisms, aligns it closely with styles sold through:

  • Sears and Montgomery Ward catalogs in the 1960s–70s
  • Hollywood Regency decor schemes, which favored glamour, crystal effects, and bold light play
  • Spanish Revival and Gothic Revival influenced lighting that used dark finishes and ornate cast forms

Key Features:

  • Three-tiered “pagoda” silhouette
  • Diamond-shaped, iridescent prisms (likely acrylic or pressed glass)
  • Decorative ceiling cap and very distinctive chain design
  • Cast metal details with a vegetal motif, particularly visible on the top finial and chain links

🧾 Estimated Value (2025)

Market Type

Estimated Value

Online retail (Etsy, eBay)

$250 – $450 USD

Local vintage lighting dealer

$350 – $600 USD

Fully restored w/ rewiring

$600 – $800 USD

In pair or as part of a matched set

$800 – $1,200 USD

 

Factors influencing value:

  • Rarity of form: Multi-tiered versions with high prism counts are less common
  • Condition: This one appears very well-preserved based on crystal clarity, frame integrity, and chain finish
  • Electrification: Working order with modern safety wiring will significantly raise value

🏷️ Identification & Authentication

  • No visible manufacturer tags, but similar pieces were made by companies such as:
    • GIM (Gothic Industries Manufacturing)
    • Sexton Lighting
    • Homco / Syroco / Underwriters Laboratories marked lamps

Given the detailing and materials, your piece is authentically vintage, not a reproduction.

✅ Recommendations

  • Not currently for sale, but if that changes:
    • Photograph it lit and hung against a neutral background to show prismatic effect
    • Include close-ups of the chain and socket if rewired
    • Use descriptors like: "Hollywood Regency Hanging Swag Lamp – 1960s Crystal Prisms – Spanish Revival Style"
  • If rewiring needed: Use a qualified technician to preserve its value and function.
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