Preliminary identification

Pair of Steuben Acid-Cutback Glass 'Stamford' Lamps, c. 1925

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

An exceptional pair of Art Deco table lamps featuring Steuben's famous acid-cutback glass vases mounted as lamps. The glass bodies are executed in a delicate alabaster or ivory tone, deeply etched with the iconic 'Stamford' pattern depicting stylized leaping gazelles and foliage. These represent the height of American luxury glass production from the Frederick Carder era.

Story

In the 1920s, Steuben's founder Frederick Carder revolutionized art glass by using acid to eat away layers of glass, leaving raised, frosted designs. This 'Stamford' pattern captured the speed and elegance of the Jazz Age through stylized leaping gazelles.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1903 by English glassmaker Frederick Carder and Thomas Hawkes, Steuben Glass Works became synonymous with the finest American art glass. Carder was a master chemist and designer who introduced vibrant colors and innovative techniques like Aurene, Cluthra, and Acid-Cutback. Under his direction until 1932, Steuben rivaled European giants like Lalique and Daum Nancy.

Condition & Value

The glass bodies appear to be in excellent condition with no visible cracks or major bruising in the photos. The brass hardware shows a beautiful, age-appropriate patina with some minor oxidation. The wiring appears older and should be inspected by a professional before use.

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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
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.