Antique Nightstand Lamps

Questions About Antique Nightstand Lamps

• What size lamp should be on a nightstand?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2024

  The right size lamp for your nightstand should probably be between 24 and 27 inches tall. Finding the best table lamp for this particular purpose depends on variables such as the shape of your bedside table, the size of your nightstand's tabletop and personal preferences when it comes to styling your nightstand. Find a range of antique and vintage table lamps and other lighting on 1stDibs.
  
  

• 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.

• 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.

• Should table lamps match nearby furniture like a vanity or nightstand?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026

  They don't need to match exactly. A lamp in brass or ceramic can sit comfortably on a vintage vanity or nightstand in a different wood tone.

• 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.

• Is there enough surface space on a mid-century nightstand for a lamp and a phone charger?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026

  Most tops measure at least 14 by 14 inches, which comfortably fits a table lamp plus a small charging pad or phone.

• 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.

• Is it safe to use a vintage or antique table lamp without rewiring it?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026

  Many vintage lamps are rewired before sale, but always check the listing description; a licensed electrician can inspect and rewire older cords as a precaution.