catalog text
FINE PAIR OF GILT BRONZE AND MARBLE LAMPS BY E.F. CALDWELL
New York, circa 1900; foot stamped apparently A3933, unsigned
Item # 712KZW08P
An exceptional and pristine pair of gilt bronze two-light lamps executed by the firm of Edward F. Caldwell Co. of New York during the first years of the 20th century, they exhibit a sophisticated columnar form directly influenced by the designs of the Louis XVI era.
The body is beautifully fluted with anthemion stop-flutes over a laurel-wreath ring base of inordinately crisp chiseling and leaf formation. A pair of acanthus draped stems flank the column and raise the drip-catch and candle wells that raise faux candlesticks. The pair of lamps feature a most clever mechanism for operating each light individually, not on the cord as is typically the case, but rather by rotating the candle well under each lightbulb. These were made in such a way that you can rotate them in either direction over and over and still operate the light on and off again. A very smart mechanism.
Painstaking efforts were taken to hide all wiring within the thin stems before coming through the body and exiting beneath the black marble base. They have been rewired and present exceptionally well.
Measurements: approximately 13" W x 5" D x 15 1/8" H
Condition Report:
Both lamps rewired and in perfect presentation-ready condition. Ormolu cleaned, revealing some underlying natural bronze where rubbing and natural wear has relieved the gilt overlay. Faux candlesticks are replaced. Trace verdigris and discoloration in the recesses. A very fine presentation.