Antique Lamp Table

Questions About Antique Lamp Table

• Can I replace the shade on an antique table lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026

  Yes. Most table lamps accept standard harp and finial sizes, so a replacement shade can update the look without altering the base.

• What wattage bulb should I use in an antique table lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026

  Stick to the wattage noted in the listing, typically 40 to 60 watts for standard incandescent-equivalent bulbs, to avoid overheating older wiring.

• What is an antique student lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023

  An antique student lamp is a desk lamp that features a tube-shaped stem and one or two arms. Each arm has its own shade. The design of the student lamp allows it to direct light downward onto a surface for reading. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of student lamps.

• How do I identify my antique lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023

  One of the simplest ways to identify an antique lamp is to look for markings that indicate the maker. Then, you can research the artisan or company that made the lamp using trusted online resources to see when they were active. Some antique lamps may have a date stamp on the shade or the bottom of the body of the lamp. Plugs can also provide a clue. Plugs on antique and vintage fixtures may feature exposed screws or prongs that are the same size. Prongs on newer lamps are usually two different sizes. Keep in mind that an antique lamp could have undergone a cord replacement, so what you see may not be an original. When in doubt, you can consult a certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer for information about specific pieces. Shop a selection of antique lamps on 1stDibs.

• 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.

• Do table lamps have to match?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021

  Your table lamps do not have to match but it definitely is important that they still go together. This can be done by making sure they are of similar style or have something in common such as color, shape, lamp shade, or metal type.

• How does a table lamp work?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2024

  How a table lamp works begins with its cord, which gets plugged into an electrical outlet that provides a source of energy. Halogen and incandescent bulbs contain filaments. The filament in a bulb is a conductor of electricity. It’s attached to contacts made of metal that are connected to a power supply. This allows for electricity to flow through it. When the electrical current cycles through the filament, this component gets quite hot and emits light. Find a large collection of vintage table lamps on 1stDibs.

• How big should a table lamp be?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023

  How big a table lamp should be depends on your lighting needs and the size of the surface that you're placing the light fixture on. Most table lamps are 30 to 36 inches tall. On shorter tables, a taller lamp may be necessary to put illumination at eye level. Find a variety of table lamps on 1stDibs.

• What are table lamps used for?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  Table lamps are often used as a reading light or for task lighting. They can also simply serve as part of a room’s decor, perhaps adding light to an area that doesn’t get any illumination from overhead lights. Shop a collection of table lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

• What is a buffet table lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021

  Buffet lamps, also known as console lamps or candlestick lamps, are light fixtures that range in height from 32 to 36 inches. The lamps feature a small shade and a narrow base silhouette, which resembles a slim column or candlestick. Shop for antique and vintage buffet lamps on 1stDibs.

• How do I identify my table lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024

  To identify your table lamp, look it over in search of a maker's mark. Check the base, neck, light receptacle and shade for an engraving, embossing, stamp, label or other mark. With lamps that have felted bottoms, this may require lifting the fabric to reveal the material beneath. After finding a maker's mark, research it using trusted online resources to learn who the maker was and learn more about your fixture. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can help as needed. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary table lamps.

• How do I know if my porcelain lamps are antique?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  The best way to determine the age of porcelain lamps is to work with an appraiser. While some online resources can be helpful when you’re looking for information about the value of an item, the suggested value you find may not be the actual value of your item, since that will depend on a number of factors, including the shape it’s in. You’ll find expertly vetted porcelain lamps and other decor on 1stDibs.

• How do you identify an antique floor lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024

  To identify an antique floor lamp, first see if you can locate a marking on the shade, base, switch, socket or another area. Using trusted online resources, you can often identify a maker based on these markings. With an unmarked lamp, check the cord. Antique lighting fixtures will usually have a cotton-wrapped cord or exposed wires rather than a polymer-coated cord. The plug is also likely to have prongs the same size if the lamp is antique. Generally, a floor lamp must be at least 100 years old to be considered an antique. For further assistance with the identification process, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique floor lamps.

• How do you identify an antique electric lamp?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024

  To identify an antique electric lamp, check out the cord. Antique lamps will usually not have a vinyl or polymer cord cover. Instead, you can expect the wires to be exposed or covered with fabric. In addition, the prongs on antique plugs will be the same size. If your lamp has one small and one large prong, it's unlikely to be an antique. Keep in mind that some antique lamps may have been rewired, so you may wish to get an opinion from a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. On 1stDibs, find a selection of antique electric lamps.

• What makes an antique lamp valuable?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023

  A number of things can make an antique lamp valuable. The lamp’s maker is a major determining factor. Pieces made by Tiffany Studios, Baccarat, Handel and Pairpoint are frequently sought by collectors and are generally worth more than others. The style and condition of the piece will also affect how much it's worth. You can enlist the help of a certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer for assistance evaluating a particular lamp. Shop an assortment of antique lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

• How do I tell if an oil lamp is antique?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022

  There are a few key things to look for to identify an antique oil lamp. First check for a patent number anywhere on your lamp. Use a black light to inspect whether your lamp’s hardware is secured with glue, which fluoresces and would indicate a contemporary lamp. Antique lamps use plaster to attach hardware and fill gaps. An antique oil lamp may have hand-blown glass. Shop a range of professionally authenticated antique oil lamps on 1stDibs.

• How do I identify an antique table?

  2 Answers
  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021

  You can identify an antique table in a number of ways. The first clue that a table is antique is the joinery. If a piece of furniture is dovetailed by hand, it only has a couple of dovetails, which are uneven. Also, antique tables are not defined by perfect symmetry. Lastly, antique tables were typically made of oak, mahogany, and walnut.

  

  Bonnin Ashley Antiques IncFebruary 23, 2021

  In addition to the joinery you can check the bottoms of the drawers and the backs of the cabinets. If they were made prior to 1850 then the wood will most likely be dimensioned by hand. It will be uneven to the touch. The secondary wood that receives the veneer will have been scraped smooth but drawer bottoms, backs and bottoms are often left less finished.