Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a classic mid-century revival of the traditional 19th-century student lamp, designed as a double-arm brass floor lamp. It features adjustable arms holding two milk glass shades with ruffled rims, complete with clear glass hurricane chimneys inside.
Story
Kerosene student lamps were patented in the 1860s to provide shadow-free reading light. This mid-century electric version brought that cozy, academic aesthetic out of the Victorian study and into modern living rooms.
Maker / Origin
While often unsigned, lamps of this style were produced by prominent mid-century lighting manufacturers such as Wildwood, Bradley & Hubbard, or Laurel Lamp Co., who specialized in high-quality brass reproductions of early American lighting.
Condition & Value
The lamp appears to be in good vintage condition with a natural aged patina on the brass. The milk glass shades and glass chimneys appear intact without major chips or cracks, though some surface tarnish is present on the base. Excellent working condition and undamaged glass command the top end of the value range.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.