Clawfoot Lamp

Item Details

• Type: Antique Clawfoot Lamp
• Material: Likely brass or bronze base with a glass insert
• Dimensions: 42.5" tall, 12" wide
• Weight: Estimated 25+ lbs
• Condition: Excellent — Appears well-maintained with no visible damage or significant wear.
• Date Period: Estimated early 20th century, possibly 1920s–1940s based on style and materials.
• Provenance: Owned by the current owner’s grandparents, suggesting it may be mid-century or older.

Historical Context and Style

This style of lamp is often referred to as a clawfoot lamp or bird talon lamp, which was a popular design element in the Art Nouveau and Victorian eras. These lamps were characterized by:

✅ Claw or talon-shaped bases (often modeled after eagle, griffin, or dragon feet) that were designed to evoke strength and elegance.
✅ Brass or bronze construction, common in 1920s–1940s lighting designs.
✅ The glass insert (possibly used for decorative purposes or to hold oils or perfumes) suggests it may have been intended as a parlor lamp or accent lamp.

Estimated Value

Based on its condition, materials, and decorative style, this lamp could be valued as follows:

• $200 – $350 USD (Standard vintage clawfoot lamp in working condition)
• $400 – $600 USD (If confirmed to be an authentic antique from a notable maker or includes rare design features)
• $600 – $1,000 USD (If attributed to a known designer like Bradley & Hubbard, Tiffany Studios, or Edward Miller & Co.)

Factors That Influence Value

✔️ Material Quality: Brass and bronze designs tend to be more valuable than iron or mixed-metal alternatives.
✔️ Glass Insert Originality: If the glass bowl is original and undamaged, this adds significant value.
✔️ Condition: Since this lamp is in excellent condition, its value is enhanced.
✔️ Wiring Status: If the wiring has been updated for modern safety standards, it’s more marketable.
✔️ Rarity of Design: The clawfoot style is sought after by Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and eclectic décor collectors.

Recommended Next Steps for Maximizing Value

1. Identify the Manufacturer: Look for maker’s marks, stamps, or labels (typically on the underside of the base or inside the lamp hardware).
2. Test the Electrical Wiring: If the wiring is old or brittle, consider professional rewiring to ensure safe use and improve resale value.
3. Professional Appraisal: Due to its unique design, I recommend consulting a specialty lighting or antique dealerfor a precise valuation, especially if it's from a sought-after maker.
4. Selling Platforms: Consider listing it on websites that attract collectors such as:
   • eBay (for vintage items)
   • Etsy (for unique and decorative antiques)
   • 1stDibs or Chairish (for upscale décor and collector markets)

Conclusion

This antique clawfoot lamp is a valuable decorative piece with strong appeal to vintage and eclectic décor collectors. With proper cleaning, maintenance, and marketing, it could achieve a fair market value in the $400 – $600 range, potentially higher if linked to a notable maker.