Expert: Rex Ransome - 2/17/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have a set of lamps my aunt gave and a pipe busted in my house and they were siting in water.  I want to find out about fixing them and if you can tell me what they are.  I had to list all my items and have no ideal what to put for them, something in just an approximate value range would help me. Most of all I want them fixed. The bases are rusting I can send another picture of the base for you.

ANSWER: I imagine they are worth around $75 each. To refinish the bases could be done in about an hour with gold rub and satin clear spray enamel.

thanks

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I saw a set of these in the Smokey Mountains a couple of years ago only difference the flowers were blue.  They were $550. Would refinish to the bases lose their value?  I would have thought more than $75 each as a value, do you know what they are called.  Like I said most of all they mean a great deal to me so I just want them fixed.  I appreciate your help and for getting back to me so fast.

Answer
I am going by current reasonable prices. These type lamps sell at some auctions for $20 or less. Search on Ebay and you will see that these type aren't all that valuable. Some retail antique stores are ridiculous the way they price things. I have never seen this style in an antique store marked over $75 each. I have a variety of these I picked up at an auction in Jan. for 32 lamps cost me $65 total price. several of these kind are in that group.