gone with the wind hurricane lamp

Description & Characteristics:

• Style: Gone with the Wind-style electric hurricane lamp.
• Height: Approximately 30 inches.
• Width: Approximately 13 inches at the widest part.
• Materials: Hand-painted glass (likely milk glass or satin glass) with floral motifs; metal base and fittings with ornate scrollwork.
• Paint: Roses in vibrant pink, yellow, and red tones; hand-painted.
• Construction: Two-part glass body (top globe and bottom font), typical of GWTW lamps.
• Wiring: Appears to have the original electric cord (likely dates from mid-20th century retrofit or production).
• Condition: Good, with a 2" x ¼" chip on the lip of the top globe (not visible when assembled).

Historical Context:

“Gone with the Wind” (GWTW) lamps are not actually from the Civil War era; the name comes from their popularity after the 1939 film's release. True antique kerosene versions date from 1880–1910, while most electric reproductions date from 1940s to 1970s. Yours is very likely a mid-20th-century reproduction, based on:

• Electric wiring (appears original)
• Molded brass-tone metal base
• Common floral hand-painted pattern of that era
• No maker’s mark or signature visible

These were popular parlor and bedroom lamps and remain sought after by collectors and decorators alike.

Estimated Market Value (2024–2025):

Given the condition, artistry, and style:

• Retail (decorator or collector market): $150 – $250 USD
• Private sale (e.g., online marketplaces): $100 – $175 USD
• With restored or professionally rewired cord: Slightly higher
• If the chipped top globe were replaced: Add $40–$75 in value

Notes for Collectors:

• Original late-1800s GWTW lamps (kerosene, signed by makers like Bradley & Hubbard or Fostoria) can fetch $500–$1,200+.
• Mid-century electric versions are often considered vintage but not antique.
• Intact painted shades are highly valued—replacement shades reduce collector appeal.
• Matching shades and ornate bases raise the appeal of your lamp.

Authentication & Appraisal Recommendation:

Your lamp appears authentic as a vintage mid-century reproduction. It is not an original 19th-century oil lamp, but its decorative value is strong. Because of the chip and unmarked base, a professional appraisal is not strictly necessary, unless:

• You’re submitting it for insurance purposes
• You suspect it might be an earlier conversion piece (pre-1930)

If desired, a lamp appraiser or antique dealer specializing in American lighting could give more precision.