Converted German Lamp

Date1920

Mediumbrass

Dimensionsassembled: 24 × 7 1/2 × 11 1/4 in. (61 × 19.1 × 28.6 cm)
lamp: 21 1/4 × 7 × 11 1/4 in. (54 × 17.8 × 28.6 cm)
shade: 5 × 7 1/4 in. (12.7 × 18.4 cm)

ClassificationsFurnishings

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Mary Jean Gillingham in Memory of William H. and Elizabeth Colvin

Object numberPC1978.5.4.A-B

DescriptionThis converted German lamp is constructed of brass, glass, and various electrical parts. This furnishing piece features an elongated brass base that connects the base to the top lampshade portion, which is a rounded, oval-like shape with a flared and frilly top, and the surface is adorned with an embossed hobnail pattern throughout. The lamp is reminiscent of the Jugendstil movement and style, popularized during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in Germany and other parts of Europe, characterized by curvelinear and organic forms in tandem with more geometric lines to create an essence of movement, and created through inspiration from the emerging Art Nouveau movement during the same period. A long, brown cord is also visible on the bottom of the brass lampshade support, likely showcasing how this lamp initially utilized oil for power, and later on modified to function with electricity, becoming more widely utilized during the late nineteenth century and early to mid twentieth century. This lamp illustrates the bridge in technological evolution over time, showcasing both pre- and post-electrical furnishing craftsmanship.

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