An Original Art Deco Bronze Desk Lamp with Fossiliferous Limestone Base

Circa 1925–1935

This sophisticated and complete original Art Deco desk lamp dates from the interwar period and is a fine example of early 20th-century European design, combining refined utility with architectural presence.

The lamp is executed in patinated bronze, retaining a warm, untouched surface, and is mounted on a substantial base of fossiliferous limestone. This stone, prized for both its durability and visual interest, displays a distinctive clastic texture, composed of small shell fragments and marine fossils naturally cemented together. The organic patterning and earthy tonality of the stone provide a subtle yet highly attractive contrast to the precision of the bronze work.

The limestone is closely comparable to Jura marble (a geological limestone quarried in Germany) or related European “shell stone,” materials frequently employed during the Art Deco period for high-quality architectural and decorative objects.

The base incorporates a complete integrated desk set, comprising two lidded pots, a quill holder, and a pen rest carved directly into the stone, reflecting the importance of correspondence and handwriting in the period and elevating the lamp beyond a purely functional light fitting.

The rectangular bronze shade is classical Art Deco in form, designed to direct light downward for writing or reading while maintaining clean, disciplined lines.

Circa 1925–1935

Art Deco desk lamps were often conceived as integrated desk objects rather than standalone lights. The use of fossiliferous limestone and related shell stones reflects the period’s fascination with natural materials presented in a modern, architectural manner. Such stones were widely used in European interiors and public buildings during the interwar years.

Complete desk lamps incorporating pen rests, inkwells, and quill holders were typically produced for professional, executive, or institutional settings and are now increasingly scarce, particularly when all elements survive intact.

Dealer’s Comment

A particularly fine and complete Art Deco desk lamp, distinguished by its fossiliferous limestone base and untouched bronze surfaces. The natural fossil patterning in the stone adds depth and individuality, while the integrated desk set elements make this an exceptional and highly usable piece. Increasingly difficult to find in such complete and honest condition.

Condition Report

In very good original condition, consistent with age and use.

The bronze retains its original patina with light surface wear and no evidence of later polishing or restoration. The fossiliferous limestone base is sound and well preserved, showing only minor surface marks consistent with age; the fossil inclusions and shell fragments are natural features of the stone and not damage.

All desk-set components — including the two lidded pots, quill holder, and pen rest — are present and intact.

The lamp have been fully rewired and PAT inspected to UK standards

Measurement

Height:            30 cm /     11.8 inch

Width:             23 cm /     9.1 inch

Depth:             11 cm /      4.3 inch

Weight:           3.3 k.g. /    7.3lbs