French Bouillotte-Style Three-Light Table Lamp
Decorative Art/Lighting • Unidentified manufacturer; possibly French or American in the Neoclassical taste
Style & Movement
Neoclassical Revival / Empire Style
Medium & Technique
Cast and turned brass with gold-toned lacquer finish and cardboard candle-sleeves
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24-28 inches in height; circular tiered base format
Subject Description
A three-arm electric table lamp modeled after 18th-century French Bouillotte lamps originally used for card games. It features a central vertical rod with a ring finial, intended to support an adjustable tôle shade (currently missing), and three scrolled arms supporting faux-candle sockets.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; structurally sound but missing the essential adjustable metal shade and showing surface wear
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $300 USD (value is significantly reduced due to the missing shade)
Auction Estimate
$100 - $200 USD
Provenance History
Unknown private collection; typical of mid-century residential furnishings influenced by European antiques
Art Historical Significance
Represents the mid-20th century interest in Neoclassical revivalism and the adaptation of historical 18th-century lighting forms into modern electrical household objects.
Notable Features
Features a telescopic central rod with a ring handle designed for portability during card gaming; tiered circular base and classic 'Empire' style proportions.
Condition Issues
Missing the adjustable tôle (painted metal) shade and its tightening screw; surface oxidation and tarnishing on the brass; outdated electrical wiring; discolored cardboard candle-sleeves.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional rewiring is recommended for safety; procurement of a replacement period-appropriate metal tôle shade; gentle cleaning with a non-abrasive metal cloth.