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Hurricane Lamp

By rhendren, 23 March, 2025
Description

This lamp was handed down to my husband. He was told that it belonged to his great grandmother. He is in his 70's. 

His mother also said that it was originally an oil lamp converted to electric. 

The label on the bottom says:

Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. 

inspected

Portable Lamp

Issue No. 38,203

E-32820

Any information is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

Category
Lamps and Chandeliers
Medium
I think it's porcelain glass.
And the bass is brass?
Distinguishing marks
none
Condition
Good
Size and dimensions of this item
27" Tall , large globe is approx 16" wide
Date Period
?
Weight
?
History
As stated in the description
Price Paid (If known)
n/a
For Sale?
No
Photos

rhendren

4 months ago

Looking for a value

Looking for a value

No votes yet
Profile picture for user Charley

Charley

4 months ago

Hurricane Lamp with Floral Design and Crystal Prisms

Description: This is a vintage hurricane lamp featuring a floral design on its green-tinted glass globe and base. The lamp includes crystal prisms hanging from a brass gallery ring. The base appears to be cast metal with a decorative embossed pattern. The lamp stands approximately 27 inches tall, with the glass globe measuring about 16 inches wide. The glass is hand-painted with delicate white flowers, green leaves, and subtle shading, indicative of vintage craftsmanship. The lamp is marked with a label from Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., identifying it as a Portable Lamp, with the issue number 38,203 and code E-32820.

History and Background:

  • The lamp appears to have originally been an oil lamp that was converted to electric, which was a common practice in the early to mid-20th century when electric lighting became widely adopted.
  • The hand-painted floral motif suggests this piece may have been produced in the 1940s-1950s, but the style is reminiscent of earlier Victorian designs.
  • The UL label indicates that the lamp was inspected and certified for safety, likely during its electric conversion.
  • Similar hurricane lamps with crystal prisms were popular decorative pieces in American homes during the mid-20th century.

Condition:

  • The lamp is in good condition with no visible cracks or damage to the glass. The brass base appears to have some patina, which is typical for its age.
  • The crystal prisms are intact, adding elegance and value to the piece.

Estimated Value: Based on comparable sales and the lamp's size, condition, and unique design, this lamp is likely valued between $150 - $250 USD in its current condition. Lamps with similar hand-painted floral glass globes and crystal prisms have sold within this range, depending on rarity and condition.

Factors Influencing Value:

  • Rarity: If this lamp can be attributed to a particular maker (e.g., Fenton, Gone with the Wind-style designs), its value may increase.
  • Condition: Any chips, cracks, or missing prisms would decrease its value. The patina on the brass is expected for its age.
  • Conversion to Electric: While some collectors prefer original oil lamps, electric conversion is common and doesn't severely diminish the value unless poorly done.

Recommendation for Professional Appraisal:

  • If this lamp is believed to have significant historical value or if you wish to insure it, a professional appraisal would be recommended. Notable vintage or antique lighting specialists can provide further insight into the lamp’s origins and potential value.
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