Lamp

Item Description:

• Type: Desk or Boudoir Bridge Arm Lamp
• Style: Transitional Art Nouveau to early Art Deco
• Material: Cast brass/bronze (base and arm), frosted and stained glass (shade)
• Period: Circa 1910–1930
• Condition: Fair (tarnishing/patina, moderate wear, shade appears intact)
• Price Paid: $30
• For Sale: No

Detailed Analysis:

1. Base & Construction:

The lamp features a hexagonal cast metal base with stylized floral and draped motif designs, characteristic of late Art Nouveau transitioning into early Art Deco. The pattern and casting technique suggest a production era around the 1910s to early 1930s. The scroll arm is likely brass-plated steel or solid brass and shows authentic oxidation consistent with age.

2. Shade:

The ruffled and frosted glass shade, graduating from opalescent white to a cranberry-pink tone, is hand-molded in a floral or shell-like form—typical of Art Nouveau glass design. These shades were often produced in Czechoslovakia or by American companies such as Houze, Consolidated Glass, or Pittsburgh Lamp Brass and Glass Co.

3. Socket & Wiring:

The socket appears to be a standard medium base (E26) ceramic or Bakelite replacement, indicating the lamp has been rewired—an important safety upgrade, though it slightly reduces original integrity. The white cord is modern and not period-authentic.

Authentication & Attribution:

• Design Motif: The floral and draped elements, the ornate hex base, and the graceful arching stem are all classic hallmarks of the late Art Nouveau/early Deco movement.
• Manufacture Origin: Likely American or European (possibly French, German, or Bohemian influence). No visible maker’s marks were found in the provided images, which is common for lamps from this transitional period.
• Authenticity: Given the casting style, patina, and design language, this lamp is likely authentic and not a modern reproduction. The only modern element is the electrical wiring.

Current Market Value:

• Low Estimate: $80
• Mid Estimate: $125
• High Estimate (with original wiring and shade in mint condition): $175–$225
• Insurance Replacement Value: ~$200

The $30 price you paid is excellent—well below typical market value for similar antique lamps.

Recommendations:

• Cleaning: Use only mild soap and a soft cloth to clean the metal. Do not polish aggressively, as the patina adds to its antique value.
• Professional Appraisal: For insurance purposes or resale at higher-end venues (like Ruby Lane, 1stDibs, or auction), a professional appraisal from a certified antiques dealer or decorative arts appraiser is recommended.
• Restoration Caution: Avoid repainting or replacing the glass shade unless damaged—original glass is a key part of the value.

Conclusion:

This is a genuine early 20th-century Art Nouveau/Art Deco bridge arm table lamp with a beautiful original pink frosted ruffle glass shade. It's a charming and increasingly collectible piece in the vintage lighting market. You have a great deal at $30—its market value is likely 3–5x higher, especially to collectors or vintage interior decorators.