American Cut Glass and Silver-Plated Hurricane Lamp / Table Lighter
Hollowware · Unknown American or British manufacturer
Pattern: American Brilliant Period style cut glass with diamond and fan motifs
Type
Hollowware
Maker
Unknown American or British manufacturer
Material
Silver-plated base metal with heavy lead crystal glass shade
Dimensions
Estimated height approximately 10 to 12 inches with a base diameter of 4 inches
Description
An elegant table centerpiece featuring a sparkling, heavily cut crystal shade resting securely atop a polished silver-plated metal base. The classic flared hurricane silhouette allows for soft, diffused ambient lighting while showcasing the exquisite geometric brilliance of early twentieth-century glass-cutting artistry.
Key Features
Tall diamond-cut crystal shade, flared rim, tiered silver-plated metal footed base, excellent light refraction
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal with heavy lead crystal glass shade
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver-plated collar and stepped round base, featuring deep-cut geometric crystal shade
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image; typical maker stamps would be located on the underside of the base
Construction Details
Silver-plated metal socket/base fitted with a heavily weighted interior and machine-turned components, supporting a blown and brilliant-cut lead crystal shade
Functional Features
Designed to hold a candle or oil lamp insert, sheltered by a tall glass chimney/hurricane shade to protect the flame from drafts
Handle & Grip Details
None; handled via the rigid structural body
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality wheel-cut crystal showing crisp facet lines, paired with a sturdy machine-stamped and weighted metal base
Authentication Indicators
Classic construction methods of early 20th-century combination glass and plated metal tablewares, standard weighted base construction
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Great Britain, combining popular domestic cut glass traditions with commercial silver plating
Era & Period
Early 20th Century (c. 1900-1930), reflecting Victorian or Edwardian interior styling
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1930
Cultural Significance
Represents the turn-of-the-century fascination with brilliant cut glass and polished metal table accessories, signaling domestic refinement and hospitality
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Light surface tarnish visible on the silver-plated collar; glass appears clear with no visible major chips or cracks
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $75 and $200 depending on the specific maker and overall condition
Care & Maintenance
Wash crystal shade gently in warm soapy water; use a specialized non-abrasive silver polish cloth on the plated base to avoid removing the plating layer
Similar Pieces
Edwardian silver-plated candlesticks with etched glass shades, American Brilliant Period glassware combinations
Interesting Facts
Hurricane lamps were originally designed for tropical or outdoor dining to prevent candlelight from being extinguished by wind, later evolving into decorative indoor accent pieces