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Vintage Lamp

D
7 months ago
AI Appraisal
Description

This lamp was a gift from my mother many years ago. I believe it began life as an oil lamp. Has three initials on the top glass piece, no other markings that i could find other than that I know very little about it. Thank you

Category Lamps and Chandeliers
Medium Glass and some type of metal
Distinguishing marks Three initials on the top glass globe (picture provided).
Condition Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item 24 inches in height, base 7 inches from leg to leg on all four sides, globes vary in circumference (top being larger than middle)
Date Period unknown
Weight 15 to 18 pounds
History Unknown
Price Paid (If known) Unkown
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Submitted by DLB

Would really love to know the history, value (if any), artist and any other pertinent information that could be provided. 

Submitted by NaidaTheCollector

Item: Vintage Converted Oil Lamp (Electrified)
Type: Gone with the Wind-style parlor lamp
Medium: Hand-painted glass globes, cast metal base (likely spelter or pot metal with a patinated brass finish)
Height: ~24 inches
Estimated Weight: 15–18 lbs
Condition: Excellent (no chips, cracks, or visible repairs)

🔎 Description & History

This is a late Victorian-style parlor lamp, commonly referred to as a "Gone with the Wind" lamp due to its appearance in mid-20th century period films. Originally produced in the late 1800s to early 1900s, these lamps began as oil lamps, later converted to electric either mid-century or more recently.

Notable features:

  • Hand-painted floral and vine motifs on milk glass globes. The initials “JAG” (as seen on the upper globe) may indicate a studio artist or decorative painter, but this is not currently linked to a known factory.
  • Embossed metal base and collar, stylized with a Rococo influence.
  • Dual-globe design (matching top and bottom), which was common among quality parlor lamps.
  • The lamp’s globe shape, painted style, and construction are consistent with lamps produced by American companies like Pittsburgh Lamp, Phoenix Glass Co., and Fostoria during the 1880–1920 period.

🧾 Estimated Value

Retail Value (in excellent working condition):

  • $200–$400 USD depending on local demand and provenance.

Auction or Private Sale Value:

  • $150–$250 USD, especially if artist is unknown and electrification is modern.

Factors Affecting Value:

  • If original oil lamp components are present, it may be valued higher by purists.
  • If wiring is vintage or frayed, it may require rewiring to meet safety standards.
  • The more recognizable the painter or glasshouse, the higher the collectible appeal.

📌 Collector Notes

  • These types of lamps are highly sought after by collectors of Victorian lighting, especially when both the top and bottom globes are intact, original, and decorated.
  • If you can identify the maker's mark (sometimes found inside the base or under the metal collar), the value could increase significantly.
  • Matching lamps with floral vine designs are a strong niche market among early American home décor enthusiasts and interior designers.

🔧 Recommendations

  • Do not clean the painted surface with chemicals—just a dry microfiber cloth to preserve the hand-painted finish.
  • Consider LED bulb retrofitting if you’re still using older incandescent bulbs to reduce heat exposure to the glass.

📝 Final Thoughts

This is a charming and well-preserved decorative lamp, likely over 100 years old, that carries strong aesthetic and historic appeal. While it doesn’t appear to be signed by a known artist, its beauty and completeness make it a lovely heirloom. If ever selling, mention the condition, electrification, and hand-painted design clearly.

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