Preliminary identification

Phoenix Art Bronze Mermaid & Seals Lily Lamp, 1979

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A three-light 'Lily' style table lamp featuring an Art Nouveau revival mermaid and seal base cast in art bronze with a polished alabaster plinth.

Story

In 1979, the design world was in the midst of a massive 'Art Nouveau Revival,' a nostalgic movement that rejected the plastic minimalism of the 1960s in favor of the organic, flowing lines of the early 20th century.

Maker / Origin

Phoenix Art Bronze was a specialized American foundry active in the late 20th century that focused on high-quality decorative lighting and sculpture.

Condition & Value

The glass shades appear to be in excellent condition without visible chips. However, the cloth-covered cord shows significant fraying near the base, which is a fire hazard; the lamp must be rewired before use. The metal shows some light oxidation (verdigris) which is common for this age and often preferred by collectors.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD