Mid-century Modern Style Brushed Brass or Gold-Toned Cylindrical Lamp Component
Lighting / Non-Silver Decorative Object · Unidentified contemporary or Mid-century manufacturer (non-silversmith)
Pattern: Generic Minimalist / Industrial Modern
Type
Lighting / Non-Silver Decorative Object
Maker
Unidentified contemporary or Mid-century manufacturer (non-silversmith)
Material
Brass, brass-plated steel, or anodized aluminum; notably lacking silver content.
Dimensions
Approximately 10-12 inches in height, 2-3 inches in diameter; weight is indicative of base metals rather than dense sterling.
Description
This item is a cylindrical metal object with a brushed gold-toned finish, appearing to be part of a lamp or lighting fixture rather than a silver collectible. It lacks the luster, patina, and hallmarking characteristic of sterling or coin silver.
Key Features
Cylindrical form, brushed texture, gold/brass hue, and presence of electrical wiring nearby.
Material & Composition
Brass, brass-plated steel, or anodized aluminum; notably lacking silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Linear brushed finish with a satin sheen; no engravings, hallmarks, or precious metal ornamentation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks present; potential factory stamps or UL listing labels may exist on the electrical cord or underside of the base.
Construction Details
Machine-lathed or extruded metal tubing with a flat capped end; industrial assembly inconsistent with silver smithing.
Functional Features
Electric cord entry points; likely serves as a lamp neck or a weighted desktop accessory.
Handle & Grip Details
None; smooth cylindrical surface designed for structural or aesthetic utility rather than manual grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-finished with uniform striations; lacks the hand-wrought characteristics of fine silver work.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of silver hallmarks and anachronistic industrial finish suggest this is not precious metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely mass-produced in a factory setting (USA, Europe, or Asia) for the consumer lighting market.
Era & Period
Mid-century Modern influence (late 20th century to contemporary).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-2010 based on the brushed finish and electrical cord style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward industrial materials and minimalist forms in 20th-century home decor.
Condition Notes
Good; surface shows some minor scratches and dust consistent with storage in a cluttered environment. No tarnish (silver sulfide) present.
Value Estimate
$5 - $20 as a parts/hardware piece; negligible value as a precious metal.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft dry cloth; avoid silver polishes which may damage the lacquer or brass plating.
Similar Pieces
Mid-century Stiffel lamps or Laurel Lamp Company products often used similar brushed brass finishes.
Interesting Facts
Brushed brass finishes became highly popular in the 1970s as a warmer alternative to the chrome trends of the 1960s.