All Lamps

Questions About All Lamps

• What is the difference between a table lamp and an accent lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023

  The main difference between a table lamp and an accent lamp is its size. Generally, table lamps are larger pieces that people use for task lighting or to increase ambiance lighting in a room. Accent lamps tend to be smaller and provide supplemental light in spaces. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of lamps from some of the world's top sellers.

• What is the difference between a table lamp and a buffet lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023

  The difference between a table lamp and a buffet lamp is the size. Although the two types of lamps come in similar heights, buffet lamps are usually narrower, so they take up less space on a buffet server filled with food. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of lamps from some of the world's top sellers.

• Should a floor lamp match my table lamps?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026

  It doesn't need to match exactly; consistent wood tone or metal finish reads more intentional than an identical pair.

• How do I identify a Laurel Lamp table lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024

  To identify a Laurel Lamp table lamp, first check the bottom of the base and the bulb socket for a label, tag or other marking. Some pieces display the Laurel brand name or a serial number, which you can cross-reference with information published on trusted online resources to make an identification. Since not all Laurel table lamps bear markings, you may need to search image galleries to see if you can find a model that matches your lamp. You can also consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer for an expert opinion. Find a variety of Laurel Lamp Company lamps on 1stDibs.

• What is a TV lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021

  TV lamps were first used in the 1950s and were small figure lamps designed to look like animals, people, or other objects. The general idea was that TV lamps could protect a person from damaging their eyes from watching too much TV by diffusing the light.

• What is a torchiere lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  A torchiere lamp is a type of floor lamp designed to provide ambient illumination. It consists of a column base and a shade that grows wider as the eye travels upward. The position of its bulb or bulbs focus light on the ceiling. Find a selection of torchiere lamps on 1stDibs.

• What is the harp of a lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021

  The harp of a lamp is a metal structure that connects the shade to the base of the lamp. Once the shade is on, you can't see the harp.

• What are gourd lamps?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  A gourd lamp is a light fixture that features a bulbous body inspired by the shape of a gourd. Many fixtures are double gourds, meaning that they feature two rounded protrusions stacked one above the other. On 1stDibs, find a variety of gourd lamps.

• What is a pole lamp?

  2 Answers
  1stDibs ExpertAugust 16, 2019

  A pole lamp is a lamp that stands on the floor and is comprised of a pole to which light fixtures are attached.

  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021

  A pole lamp is a type of floor lamp, which often extends to the ceiling, and is made up of a pole with attaching light fixtures coming off from it.

• What is an ambient lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021

  An ambient lamp can be used to light up a certain room uniformly. Shop for antique and vintage ambient lamps on 1stDibs.

• What is an Akari lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  Part art and part light source, Akari lamps were created by Isamu Noguchi in 1951. These lamps use traditional methods for Japanese Gifu lanterns with handmade paper being stretched over bamboo and illuminated from the inside. Shop a collection of Akari lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

• What is atomic lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  When it comes to home decor, an atomic lamp is a term used to define interestingly shaped lamps from the 1950s or the mid-century design period. This is a time when the atomic bomb was in the news and the telltale mushroom cloud was the inspiration for the shape of these lamps. It’s a loose description of the new shapes that were being seen in lighting in this era. Shop a collection of atomic lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

• What is a bridge lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021

  A bridge lamp is a floor lamp that has an adjustable arm and is used to light up the floor or a small side table.

• What is an MCM lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  An MCM lamp is a lighting fixture produced during the middle of the 20th century. MCM stands for mid-century modern, the name associated with this era. The lamps include both tabletop and freestanding floor fixtures. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of vintage lamps.

• What is a stone lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021

  A stone lamp is a lamp made of natural geological materials such as Onyx, Agate, Selenite, and Himalayan Salts among others. These lamps are considered to be mood-alleviators through their natural qualities and are known to create a warm, inviting atmosphere in the spaces they are used in. Shop a range of antique and vintage stone lamps on 1stDibs.

• What is a Handel lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023

  A Handel lamp is a table lamp made by Handel Lamp Co. Philip J. Handel founded the company in Connecticut in 1885, and it quickly became known for making fixtures with colorful stained glass shades. Shop a range of Handel lamps on 1stDibs.

• What is a hanging lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021

  A hanging lamp is a light fitting that is suspended from the ceiling usually by a chain or a metal rod. They are generally used as a decorative fixture in homes, hotels and offices. Find a collection of antique and vintage hanging lamps on 1stDibs today.

• What is an atomic lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  The atomic lamp was a favorite mid-century modern design. The lamp took on characteristics of the molecular composition of the atom, and were found in a variety of shapes, materials and colors. You’ll find a variety of atomic lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

• What is a capiz lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  A capiz lamp is a light fixture with a base or shade decorated with a specific type of material. Capiz is the name for polished shells derived from windowpane oysters. On a capiz table lamp, the shell usually covers a base made of ceramic, porcelain or metal. Find a range of capiz lamps on 1stDibs.

• How do you date a lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022

  To date a table lamp or floor lamp, first look for any type of maker's mark. If you find one, conduct an online search to determine who the manufacturer was and when they were active. Cord and plug styles can also give you an indication of age. However, some antique and vintage lamps may have replacement cords. Materials and stylistic features can also help you determine the age of a fixture. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique and vintage lamps.