Glass Desk Lamp Appraisal

Antique Art Nouveau Slag Glass Desk Lamp

This is an antique Art Nouveau desk lamp, featuring a curved slag glass shade and a cast metal base. The shade is constructed from multiple panels of variegated slag glass, exhibiting swirling patterns of cream, amber, and brown tones, held together by a metal framework. The top of the shade and the framing around the slag glass panels are made of ornate brass or bronze-toned metal, featuring intricate decorative elements such as floral motifs, garlands, and possibly mythological or naturalistic forms characteristic of the Art Nouveau period. There is a prominent central decorative escutcheon or finial on the front of the shade where it meets the lamp's neck. The lamp stands on a dark-colored, likely cast iron or bronze, pedestal base that widens at the bottom into a circular foot. The base is adorned with painted or enameled metallic floral patterns, possibly in shades of blue and gold, adding a touch of color and contrasting with the darker finish. The electrical cord appears to be an older, possibly fabric-wrapped type, consistent with antique lamps. The lamp has a pull-chain switch mechanism. Visible condition issues include potential patina and verdigris on the metalwork, consistent with age, and the electrical cord shows signs of wear, suggesting it may require inspection or replacement for safety. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, typical of early 20th-century decorative lighting, with attention to detail in the metal casting and glass work.