Collectibles-General (Antiques)/lamp dating

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Expert: Rex Ransome - 10/26/2007


Question

cool lamps
Mr. Ransome,
I am going through an estate. There are many old table lamps, floor lamps, and bridge style lamps. I cannot find many markings to indicate manufacturer, age, etc. Some of them seem very interesting. Attached is a digital picture of 4 desk lamps, can you tell me more about them? I would appreciate anything you might be able to tell me about these lamps. If I can't find manufacturer marks, are there any other key indicators of age such as fabric cords or the 2 prongs being the same size (vs. the modern one bigger than the other).

thanks,
Paul Mead

Answer
Hi. The two middle lamps look to be from the 1930s. The one with the horizontal bulb once had a glass shade over it looking down and is known as a banker's lamp. The lamp on the far left is a desk lamp which I would date late 50s to mid 60s. The one to the far right is not worth much, but is probably from the 40s. Without seeing them close up, that's about all I can tell you....... Thanks

Rex Ransome

Expertise

I can answer most questions concerning antique and vintage lamps. I also repair and refurbish these kinds of lamps. If I don't know the answer I can research and find out.

Experience

Antique sales; antique repair; estate sales

Education/Credentials
B.A. Journalism; M.S. Human Resource Development

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