£850.00
A particularly elegant and exceptionally well-made French Bouillotte table lamp, dating from the late 19th century, circa 1880. This is a superior example of the classic Parisian bouillotte design, distinguished by its finely cast brass construction, beautifully detailed triple swan-form candle arms, pierced gallery base, and its highly desirable fully adjustable mechanism allowing both the lamp and the original painted tôle shade to rise and fall independently—a feature rarely encountered and indicative of a higher-quality piece.
A particularly elegant and exceptionally well-made French Bouillotte table lamp, dating from the late 19th century, circa 1880. This is a superior example of the classic Parisian bouillotte design, distinguished by its finely cast brass construction, beautifully detailed triple swan-form candle arms, pierced gallery base, and its highly desirable fully adjustable mechanism allowing both the lamp and the original painted tôle shade to rise and fall independently—a feature rarely encountered and indicative of a higher-quality piece.
Retaining its rich original character, the lamp has been professionally rewired to current UK standards and is ready for use.
Circa 1880
The Bouillotte lamp takes its name from the fashionable French card game "Bouillotte," which became enormously popular amongst the aristocracy during the late eighteenth century. Originally designed to illuminate gaming tables without dazzling the players, these lamps featured multiple candle branches beneath an adjustable metal shade, allowing the light to be directed precisely where required.
By the late nineteenth century, Bouillotte lamps had evolved into highly decorative objects, admired as much for their elegant form as for their practical function. Fine examples such as this were produced for distinguished French interiors where quality of casting, balance and refined detailing were of paramount importance.
This is a lamp that immediately demonstrates the quality of its manufacture.
The beautifully cast swan-form candle arms are finely modelled with crisp feathering and expressive heads, radiating from a central baluster stem. Beneath, the circular dished base is surrounded by an exquisitely pierced gallery decorated with scrolling foliage, creating depth and delicacy while showcasing the skills of the bronze founder.
Perhaps the most impressive feature is the fully adjustable mechanism. Unlike many Bouillotte lamps where only the shade moves, this example allows both the shade and the entire candle assembly to be independently raised or lowered. This sophisticated engineering is considerably less common and reflects the higher quality of manufacture found in superior French workshops during the period.
Every component has been carefully proportioned, resulting in a lamp that feels balanced, refined and substantial throughout.
There is a wonderful elegance to this piece.
The warm golden brass contrasts beautifully against the rich deep red painted tôle shade, delicately decorated with hand-painted gilt floral garlands around its circumference. The combination of polished brass, sculptural swans and rich colour creates a striking yet timeless appearance that sits comfortably within both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Whether displayed on a desk, library table, console, sideboard or bedside cabinet, it offers an unmistakably French sophistication while providing a wonderfully warm, atmospheric light.
Its adjustable height also allows the proportions to be altered depending on the setting, making it as practical as it is decorative.
French.
Private collection.
We handle a great many French Bouillotte lamps, but every so often one stands out from the rest—and this is undoubtedly one of them.
The quality of the casting is exceptional, the elegant swan arms are beautifully executed, and the pierced gallery base is far finer than that found on most examples. What truly elevates this lamp, however, is its rare dual-adjustment mechanism, allowing both the lamp assembly and the original shade to rise and fall independently. This is a feature seldom encountered and one normally associated with better-quality nineteenth-century makers.
Combined with its original painted shade, excellent proportions and professional rewiring, this is a Bouillotte lamp we would be delighted to have in our own collection. It possesses the quality, originality and presence that serious collectors seek and is an increasingly difficult type of lighting to source in this condition.
Very good antique condition, displaying the expected signs of age and gentle use. The brass has developed a beautiful mellow patina, while the original red painted tôle shade retains its decorative gilt floral border with charming age-related wear that only enhances its authenticity and appeal.
Professionally rewired to modern UK safety standards, PAT inspected.
Height: 61 cm / 24 inches
Width: 33 cm / 13 inches
Depth: 33 cm / 13 inches
Weight: 2.8 kg / 6.2 lbs
Every item offered by Shackleton Fox is carefully inspected, prepared, and where necessary conserved within our workshop prior to sale.
As heritage craftsmen and antique specialists, we believe in preserving the authenticity and integrity of each piece. Original finishes, patina, wear, and signs of age are retained wherever possible, as these elements contribute to both character and historical significance.
When restoration, rewiring, repairs, or conservation work is required, it is undertaken sympathetically using traditional techniques and materials appropriate to the period of the piece. Our philosophy is one of careful stewardship rather than unnecessary restoration, ensuring antiques remain both functional and historically respectful.
The result is a collection of pieces that have been thoughtfully prepared, allowing future owners to enjoy them with confidence while preserving their unique story and character.
