Carved Wood Torchiere Lamp Appraisal

Vintage Carved Wood Torchiere Floor Lamp (possibly Empire or Colonial Revival style)

This is a vintage torchiere style floor lamp, likely crafted from turned wood, exhibiting characteristics that suggest an early to mid-20th-century origin, possibly in the Empire or Colonial Revival style. The lamp stands tall and slender, featuring a central shaft made of dark-stained wood, possibly walnut or a similar hardwood, with a visibly rich grain. The shaft is intricately turned, displaying a series of varied profiles including prominent baluster forms, urn-like sections, and reeded or ringed details that create a sense of classical elegance and proportion. The upper portion of the shaft, immediately below the light cluster, appears darker, almost ebonized, creating a visual contrast with the lighter reddish-brown tones of the lower sections. While the base is largely obscured, what is visible suggests a sturdy, possibly circular or stepped wooden base, designed to provide stability. At the top, there is a brass or bronze cluster holding three standard screw-in light bulbs (two visible, one obscured), indicating a three-way lighting capability. A metal harp-like structure or shade fitter, also appearing to be brass or bronze, is present, suggesting it once held a large upward-facing shade, typical of torchiere lamps. The visible wiring suggests an older electrical system, which may require updating for safety. The overall condition appears to be consistent with age, with potential for minor scuffs, dings, or patina on the wooden elements and metal components, which would be expected for a piece of this vintage. The craftsmanship, particularly the detailed turning, points to a period when such decorative elements were highly valued in furniture and lighting design.