Industrial Tapered Hexagonal Metallic Lamp Shade
Decorative Art / Interior Lighting Fixture • Anonymous Artisan or Unknown Manufacturer; possibly a custom workshop specialized in Industrial or Arts and Crafts lighting.
Style & Movement
Industrial Primitive / Rustic Modern; showing influences of the Arts and Crafts movement in its geometric simplicity and emphasis on material texture.
Medium & Technique
Assembled metal-sheet panels, likely aged brass or tinned steel with a mottled chemical patina, set within a lead or zinc soldered frame.
Creation Period
Mid to Late 20th Century (circa 1940-1970)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10-14 inches in height; tapered hexagonal format (frustum shape).
Subject Description
A functional object consisting of a six-sided (hexagonal) tapered body. The panels feature a heavily mottled, variegated brown and gold surface, suggesting either natural oxidation or a hand-applied acid patina designed to mimic antique parchment or tortoiseshell.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The item shows significant surface wear, oxidation, and mottled discoloration consistent with age and heat exposure from use.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$40 - $120 USD
Provenance History
Unknown. No visible manufacturer marks or gallery labels are present in the provided view. Likely sourced from a private estate or architectural salvage.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century utilitarian design shifting toward 'Industrial Chic.' While not a fine art piece, it reflects the 20th-century aesthetic interest in organic textures and visible metalwork.
Notable Features
The distinctive mottled patina creates an iridescent, stony effect when light hits the surface; the top features pre-drilled ventilation holes for heat dissipation from an internal bulb.
Condition Issues
Visible surface corrosion, scouring marks, possible heat-related scorching to the finish, and minor pitting in the metal panels. The leaded seams show darkening/tarnish.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a micro-crystalline wax (such as Renaissance Wax) to stabilize the patina. Avoid abrasive chemical cleaners which would remove the decorative oxidation layers.