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I am looking for information and value on a pair of hand painted, urn shaped, porcelain lamps, that have been in my family for several generations. They would have been purchased in New York City. The date of purchase is where I'm a little hazy. They were either purchased between 1898 and 1906 when my great grandparents came to America, or it's possible that they were a wedding gift to my grandparents when they married in 1923.
The lamps stand 36 inches from base to top of finial. They sit on a pierced metal base and the cherubs holding up one of the urns are an unknown metal. The lamp with the scene (that runs completely around the lamp) is signed by the artist. The name is Rue or perhaps Rere or Rire (I can't tell)
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Re: Pair of porcelain lamps
most homes were not electrified until the 1930's, so most like these date later than that. Probably date mid to late 1930's.... They appear to me German porcelain, but would take a bit more research. As they stand now, you could price them in the $50-100 range. The style is not a very popular seller.
Re: Pair of porcelain lamps
Thank you for your information. It is my understanding that, especially in New York City (and London) there were homes that used electric lighting as early as the turn of the century. I'm sure you're correct about the 1930's being the era 'most' homes had it. Back in those days, my ancestors were rather well off and if electricity in the home were available they most likely would have had it.
I do recall once asking my Mother (who was born in 1928) how old the lamps were and she said she couldn't remember "they've been around as long as I remember", so your age estimate could be right.
If there is anyone with further information I would appreciate hearing from you.