Antique Amber Glass Kerosene Lamp Base with Burner Appraisal
Category: Lighting
Description
The item is an antique or vintage kerosene lamp featuring a glass base and fuel reservoir. The glass is a translucent amber or golden color and has a textured, stippled surface on the fuel reservoir portion. The base is more intricately molded with raised decorative elements that appear to be floral or scroll patterns. It has a classic lamp shape with a wide base tapering to a narrower neck, which supports the fuel reservoir, and then a shorter neck leading to the metal collar. The metal collar at the top of the glass is brass or a brass-colored alloy, showing signs of age and patina, including some greenish oxidation in areas. Attached to the collar is the burner assembly, which includes a wick adjustment knob on the side and vertical wire elements designed to hold a glass chimney (not present in the image). The metal components show wear consistent with age and use, including some surface dirt and minor corrosion. No visible chips, cracks, or significant damage are apparent on the glass from the images provided, although a more hands-on inspection would be required to confirm condition fully. There are no discernible maker's marks or identifying stamps in the visible areas of the metal or glass. The overall design, particularly the glass molding and metal burner style, suggests a manufacturing period likely from the late 19th to early 20th century, placing it within the Victorian or Edwardian era. The quality of the glass molding appears reasonable, without significant irregularities, and the metal parts, while worn, seem structurally intact.
Appraisal Report
Upon examining the provided images of this antique amber glass kerosene lamp base and burner, I assess it to be a piece dating from the late 19th to early 20th century, likely of American manufacture. The pressed glass pattern on the base and the stippled texture of the font are characteristic of the Victorian or Edwardian eras. The brass collar and burner assembly appear to be period-correct, showing age-appropriate patina and minor oxidation. The glass seems to be in good condition, with no visible chips or cracks from the photographs. However, its value is significantly impacted by several factors. The most critical is the absence of its original matching glass chimney and shade, which would have completed the lamp. It is also an unmarked piece, making attribution to a specific, more desirable manufacturer like Hobbs, Brockunier & Co. or Atterbury & Company impossible without further evidence. The market for such lamps is stable but not exceptionally strong, with collectors often prioritizing complete, marked, or rare examples. While the amber color is appealing, similar common-pattern lamps are relatively plentiful. A definitive appraisal would require in-person examination to check for subtle cracks, assess the burner's functionality, and search for any faint maker's marks not visible in photos. Without a full physical inspection and assuming no hidden damage, its primary value lies as a decorative base or a replacement part.
Appraisal Value
$45-65