Mushroom-form Table Lamp
Decorative Art / Lighting (Cameo Glass Lamp) • Attributed to Daum Frères (Nancy, France) or Schneider (Le Verre Français)
Style & Movement
Art Nouveau to early Art Deco transitional period; Ecole de Nancy
Medium & Technique
Cased glass with internal mottling, acid etching, and metal hardware. Created using the 'pâte de verre' technique or layered glass blowing with acid-cut surfaces.
Creation Period
circa 1910-1925
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12-16 inches in height; vertical format lamp with three-arm wrought or cast metal shade support.
Subject Description
A 'champignon' or mushroom-shaped lamp featuring a domed shade and a baluster-form base. The decor consists of abstract, organic mottling in deep cobalt blue, emerald green, and earthy ochre tones, suggesting a forest floor or aquatic foliage.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The glass appears intact without major visible fractures or chips; however, the metal shade supports show signs of oxidation.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 – $3,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,200 – $2,800 USD
Provenance History
Likely French origin from the Nancy region; typical of high-end European household decor from the early 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the height of the Nancy school glassmaking tradition, where industrial techniques were wedded to naturalistic, organic forms to create functional art objects.
Notable Features
The 'intercalaire' coloring technique provides depth within the glass walls; the bronze three-prong spider support is a classic feature of period French art glass lighting.
Condition Issues
Surface dust, minor oxidation/patina on the brass/bronze fitters, and potential fraying of the original silk-wrapped cord (which appears replaced or aged).
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning of glass with non-abrasive solution; inspection of electrical wiring for safety; maintain in a temperature-controlled environment away from direct vibration.