£2,650.00
An exceptional and highly decorative pair of late-19th-century bronze oil lamps, dating to circa 1880 and now sympathetically converted for use as electric table lamps.
An exceptional and highly decorative pair of late-19th-century bronze oil lamps, dating to circa 1880 and now sympathetically converted for use as electric table lamps.
Of particularly fine quality, the pair combine beautifully proportioned oil reservoirs with wonderfully unusual sculptural detailing. Each lamp is supported within an elaborate three-legged bronze stand incorporating finely modelled animal-head mounts, articulated hanging straps and substantial paw-form feet.
The bronze bodies are especially accomplished. Much of the surface is covered with a remarkably fine repeating wave-like textured decoration, interrupted by smooth moulded bands that accentuate the curving profile of each reservoir. The decoration continues through the waisted upper sections, with further patterned surfaces, turned mouldings and a delicate beaded border beneath the original burner area.
Rich, naturally developed patination has softened the bronze to deep chocolate and warm chestnut tones, with subtle golden highlights appearing along the raised edges and mouldings.
The most distinctive feature of the lamps is their extraordinary supporting framework.
Three stylised animal heads project from around each reservoir. Beautifully modelled with pointed ears, defined eyes and elongated muzzles, each head incorporates a slender articulated strap descending towards the body of the lamp.
These curved supports create the impression that the bronze reservoir is suspended within its surrounding frame.
The supports continue downwards as three long, tapered legs before terminating in wonderfully sculptural paw-form feet, individually modelled with prominent toes and claws.
Each group of feet rests upon a substantial shaped trefoil-form bronze base, its concave sides echoing the three-fold symmetry of the entire construction.
Even the underside has been considered, with a small turned and fluted pendant finial suspended beneath the reservoir — a particularly pleasing detail and further indication of the quality of manufacture.
Dating to the late 19th century, circa 1880, the lamps display many characteristics associated with the Aesthetic Movement and the period's fascination with unusual surface decoration, stylised natural forms and exotic design influences.
The combination of finely patterned bronze, sculptural animal ornament and unconventional three-legged construction gives the pair a distinctive Aesthetic Movement character with an Anglo-Japanese influence.
No maker's marks have been identified and we have therefore deliberately left the pair unattributed. Although acquired in Belgium, there is presently insufficient evidence to establish their precise country of manufacture.
The lamps were originally manufactured for oil illumination.
Their substantial bronze reservoirs and surrounding supporting structures survive, while the original burners have subsequently been adapted to accommodate electric lamp fittings.
This conversion allows the lamps to be used practically today while retaining the highly decorative original late-19th-century bronze bodies.
The pair have been carefully inspected and prepared in our workshop.
Both lamps have been fully rewired using modern British electrical components and fitted with traditional-style twisted flex chosen to complement the period appearance of the bronze.
Both lamps have also been PAT inspected and are ready for use in the UK.
The pair are in excellent antique condition, particularly considering their age and original function.
The bronze retains a rich and highly attractive historic patina, with natural variation between deep brown, chestnut and warmer bronze tones. There is minor rubbing, marking and surface variation consistent with age and use.
The intricate animal heads, articulated supports and sculptural paw feet remain particularly well defined, while the finely textured decoration across the reservoirs retains excellent clarity.
The bronze has been sensitively cleaned rather than polished, preserving the depth and character of the naturally aged surface.
Both lamps have been fully rewired and PAT inspected.
Acquired in Belgium.
The pair were sourced during one of our buying trips to Belgium before being brought back to the UK for inspection, rewiring and preparation in our workshop.
Lampshades are not included in the sale.
The lamps are photographed with our Medium Empire Lampshades – Natural with Rosemary, handmade in the United Kingdom and available to purchase separately.
The natural pleated fabric and subtle Rosemary trim have been chosen to complement the rich aged bronze particularly well.
Each lamp, excluding shade
Height: 47 cm / 18.5 inches
Width: 20 cm / 7.9 inches
Depth: 20 cm / 7.9 inches
Weight: 2.7 kg / 6 lbs
Combined weight: approximately 5.4 kg / 11.9 lbs
Date: Circa 1880
Period: Late 19th century
Style: Aesthetic Movement with Anglo-Japanese influence
Origin: European, exact country of manufacture unknown
Acquired: Belgium
Materials: Bronze and brass
Original function: Oil lamps
Current function: Electric table lamps
Maker: Unidentified
Decoration: Finely textured bronze, animal-head mounts, articulated straps and paw-form feet
Base: Shaped three-point / trefoil-form bronze base
Electrical: Fully rewired with modern British components and PAT inspected
Lampshades: Not included; Medium Empire Natural with Rosemary shades available separately
Sold as: Pair
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.
