Description
Pair of Vintage Onyx & Cast Brass Table Lamps, c.1950
A fabulous pair of tall vintage table lamps in beautifully figured onyx and richly detailed cast brass.
The stone columns are punctuated by ornate cast brass fittings, including foliate collars and decorative knops, before meeting the substantial tripod bases. The bases are particularly lovely, with deeply cast scrolling foliage and shell-like decoration terminating in small paw feet.
The combination of elaborate classical detailing and beautifully coloured natural stone gives the lamps a distinctly European feel – opulent without being overly formal.
Similar brass and onyx lamps were produced in England and Continental Europe throughout the middle decades of the 20th century. Comparable examples are commonly dated from the 1930s to the 1960s, so we have conservatively dated this pair to circa 1950.
The lamps are fitted with brass bayonet lampholders and gold-coloured flex with UK plugs.
They would look particularly good with simple gathered linen or card shades – I’d resist anything too ornate because the bases already provide plenty of detail.
Dimensions:
Height to top of lampholder: 45 cm
Maximum base width: 13 cm
Good vintage condition with age-related wear throughout. The brass has areas of rubbing, tarnishing and loss to the original gilt/brass finish, particularly around the bases and feet. The onyx has natural colour and tonal variation, with some surface marks and small areas of wear consistent with age. One column has a noticeable rust-coloured inclusion/mark towards its lower section, as photographed. The lamps retain later electrical fittings, flex and UK plugs.
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