19th Century Industrial Adjustable Desk Lamp with Opaline Ruffle Shade
Description
A superb early Delft Blue and White table lamp, exemplifying the height of Dutch ceramic artistry. The finely potted, hand-painted body is adorned with the quintessential cobalt floral motifs, their vibrancy set in striking relief against a lustrous white ground. To the base, the authentic Delft factory mark confirms its distinguished origin.
Mainland UK Delivery Included
International Shipping
Delivery Leadtime
International delivery is estimated at 5-7 working days.
Full details will be confirmed during the ordering process.
19th Century Industrial Adjustable Desk Lamp with Opaline Ruffle Shade
A fine and functional example of late 19th-century industrial lighting, this adjustable desk or work lamp is a beautiful representation of early electric design. Constructed from brass and cast iron, this piece combines durability with elegance and would have originally been used in a workshop, engineer’s desk, library, or artist’s studio.
It features its original hand-blown frosted opaline ruffle glass shade, a delicate contrast to the robust base and fittings — showcasing the era's balance between utility and decorative form.
This lamp dates to the late 19th century, a period when electricity was beginning to replace gas as the primary source of domestic and industrial lighting. The adjustable design was revolutionary for the time, allowing users to control light direction — particularly useful in precision work or reading. Lamps like this were common in factories, workshops, and laboratories, and gradually became part of home office or library furnishings.
The inclusion of a decorative opaline shade speaks to the Victorian penchant for combining beauty with function, even in utilitarian objects.This antique lamp is a superb addition to period interiors, home offices, vintage industrial décor, or design-conscious workspaces. It offers both historical authenticity and modern functionality.
Condition Report
Delft Blue and White table lamp is in overall very good antique condition with age-appropriate wear. There is a very fine hairline split, visible in the photos. The lamp remains structurally sound.
The hand-painted surface retains its vibrant cobalt blue color, with only minimal wear consistent with age. The brass base and fittings show light tarnishing and a warm patina.
The lamp has been fully rewired to UK standards using quality UK fittings and has passed a PAT (Portable Appliance Test) for electrical safety. It is in safe working order and ready for immediate use.
Measurement
Height:      40 cm   /   15.7 inches
Width:       12 cm   /   4.7 inches
Depth:       26 cm   /   10.2 inches
Weight:      2.4 k.g.   /   5.3 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
We complete a full assessment, re-wire and PAT inspection on all lighting. The full assessment can include general upkeep and updating – Fitting new lamp holders, deep cleaning, minor repairs and replacement of fragile metal pins are all part of our service. Rewiring includes a standard rewire to conform with UK electrical regulations to an adaptation or conversion
