Mid-Century Modern Style Silver-Plated Electric Lamp with Crystal Detail
Decorative Object / Lighting · Generic manufacturer; unlikely to be a prestigious silversmith given the presence of modern electrical components and industrial assembly.
Pattern: Non-specific Mid-Century Modern utility design; mass-produced household item without a dedicated collector pattern name.
Type
Decorative Object / Lighting
Maker
Generic manufacturer; unlikely to be a prestigious silversmith given the presence of modern electrical components and industrial assembly.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely brass or steel). The presence of a plastic red switch and modern wiring indicates this is not a solid sterling silver piece.
Dimensions
Estimated base diameter of 4-5 inches; total weight would be substantial due to internal electrical ballast or weighting, not metal value.
Description
This is a utilitarian household lamp featuring a silver-plated finish. While it mimics the elegance of traditional silver hollowware through its tiered base and cone-shaped neck, it is a functional 20th-century electrical appliance. The faceted crystal-like element provides a touch of 'Old Hollywood' or Regency revival style to an otherwise industrial design.
Key Features
Integrated red plastic rocker switch, tiered silver-plated base, and faceted clear decorative element.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely brass or steel). The presence of a plastic red switch and modern wiring indicates this is not a solid sterling silver piece.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver-plate finish with significant oxidation and tarnish; features a faceted glass or plastic 'crystal' knop and a modern red plastic rocker switch.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks visible in the image. Such items usually only contain 'Made in [Country]' or UL electrical safety stickers rather than silver purity marks.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured; spun metal base with a cone-shaped riser, assembled with modern electrical wiring and a plastic toggle switch housing.
Functional Features
Electric on/off rocker switch, internal wiring channel, and faceted decorative element to refract light.
Handle & Grip Details
The faceted 'crystal' section serves as a decorative grip or knop between the base and the lamp neck; appears to be pressed glass.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial assembly-line quality; machine-spun metal and molded plastic; not a work of fine silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The item is clearly modern electrical hardware; the presence of plastic components and the lack of hallmarks confirm it is not an antique silver collectible.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely mass-produced in the United States or Asia for the retail home goods market.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century (Post-1960s); indicated by the molded plastic red switch and the style of the electrical cord.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the industrial style of the rocker switch and the tarnish pattern on the plating.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mass-market accessibility of 'silver-style' luxury for middle-class home decor in the mid-to-late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface tarnish and potential plating loss on the base. The electrical cord appears frayed or damaged (bottom left), which poses a safety hazard.
Value Estimate
$10 - $30 USD; value is purely decorative/functional and restricted by the poor condition of the wiring.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a damp cloth; do not use silver dips as they may damage the electrical switch. Do not plug in until the frayed cord is replaced by a professional.
Similar Pieces
Stiffel silver-plated lamps (higher quality) or various 1970s department store brand table lamps.
Interesting Facts
Items like this were popular in the 1970s as 'Hollywood Regency' decor, attempting to blend modern electrical convenience with the look of classic silver luxury.