Featured in this lot is this nickel silver, two arm French Empire style bouillotte lamp from the late 19th/ early 20th century. A Bouillotte lamp is a French-style table lamp that first appeared in the 18th century under the reign of Louis XVI. It was first intended for use when playing Bouillotte, a popular gambling card game akin to poker. These lamps were originally designed for candles and were later converted for electric lighting. One of the most distinguishing elements is the movable shade, which is typically made of tole (painted metal), parchment, or brass. The shade is attached to a central rod and can be raised and lowered to adjust the brightness. In its original candle-lit form, players could change the shade as the candles burnt down to control the brightness. This lamp shows a nickel silver construction and features a tole (painted metal) lampshade. Both the candlestick holders and tole shade can be adjusted with a turn key, one on the top and one on the bottom. The piece shows good condition overall with wear present from its age and use, but no major signs of damage is noted. A patina has formed on most of the nickel silver. It measures 8 1/2" L x 12 1/4" W x 23 1/8" H and weighs 3 pounds and 8 ounces.