Mushroom-form Cameo or Mottled Glass Table Lamp
Decorative art lamp; cameo or art glass on a pedestal base • In the manner of Schneider (specifically Le Verre Français line) or Muller Frères (Luneville), possibly Daum Nancy school
Style & Movement
Art Nouveau to early Art Deco transitional period
Medium & Technique
Cased glass with acid-etched or wheel-carved finishes including mottled and pâte-de-verre techniques; gilt metal (bronze or brass) hardware and spider fittings
Creation Period
Circa 1910-1925
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 35-45 cm in height; portrait/vertical format
Subject Description
A mushroom-form (champignon) desk lamp featuring an organic, biomorphic shape with vertical streaks and mottled patches of cobalt blue, citron yellow, and deep russet. The composition mimics natural forest floor textures or autumnal landscape colors.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; the glass appears intact without major visible cracks, though minor flea-bite chips at the rim and patina wear on the metal are likely present
Estimated Market Value
USD $3,500 - $6,500
Auction Estimate
USD $2,500 - $4,500
Provenance History
Unknown; likely European (French) manufacture for the high-end bourgeois market of the early 20th century, later passing through private estate sales
Art Historical Significance
Represents the height of French glassmaking innovation at the turn of the century, where the 'Ecole de Nancy' influenced functional household objects with botanical and atmospheric aesthetics.
Notable Features
Distinctive mottled color transitions; characteristic Art Nouveau mushroom silhouette; ornate cast-metal shade support with leaf-motif fasteners.
Condition Issues
Visible oxidation on the brass collar; possible minor scuffs on the base due to age; the wiring appears modern or replaced (brown plastic cord visible), which is a common safety modification.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning of glass using non-abrasive solutions; check stability of the spider arms supporting the shade; keep away from direct heat sources to prevent thermal shock to the glass.