Etched Glass and Brass Starburst Lantern
Decorative Art, Interior Lighting Fixture • Modernist Decorative Lighting Manufacturer (likely American or European, such as Visual Comfort, Chapman, or a high-end designer like Maison Jansen style)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Neoclassical Revival / Hollywood Regency
Medium & Technique
Brass-plated or solid brass framework with etched (cut) glass panels. Features sandblasted or acid-etched starburst motifs and a four-light candelabra cluster.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1950s–1970s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 to 24 inches in height (excluding chain); vertical rectangular format.
Subject Description
A square-bodied hall lantern with four glass panels. The front panel features a central starburst/sunburst etching. The structure includes an arched quatrefoil-style crown culminating in a hanging ring, and a four-socket faux-candle cluster inside.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The fixture is structurally intact but shows signs of significant neglect and environmental exposure.
Estimated Market Value
$250 – $600 USD (Refurbished)
Auction Estimate
$100 – $300 USD (As-is condition)
Provenance History
Unknown; likely residential use. Currently appears to be in storage or a basement setting. No visible makers' marks in the current view.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the mid-20th-century trend of modernizing traditional foyer lighting. The starburst motif is iconic of the Atomic Age and Hollywood Regency periods, blending traditional form with modern decorative elements.
Notable Features
Distinctive starburst glass etching; decorative finials at the corners of the crown; faux-candle sleeves; original hanging hardware loop.
Condition Issues
Visible surface oxidation/pitting on the brass, heavy dust accumulation, and frayed/ancient wiring. The electrical socket is detached from the top, posing a safety risk. One 'candle' sleeve appears slightly misaligned.
Conservation Recommendations
Full electrical rewiring is mandatory for safety. Brass surfaces require professional cleaning and possible re-lacquering. Glass should be cleaned with non-abrasive solution to preserve the etching. Frame alignment should be checked.