Lot 389

Silver Plate French Empire Style Bouillotte Lamp

Estimate: $1,200 - $1,500

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$25,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000
For your consideration is this silver plate, three arm French Empire style bouillotte lamp from the early 1900s. 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 piece shows three arms and features a tole shade painted black. The top shows a piece that can be screwed off to take the shade completely off of the lamp base. Below that was the end of an arrow turn piece that could loosen the shade to move it up and down but has since snapped off. Another turn key sits lower near the arms and controls the height of the three arms. The base shows a bowl like shape. It shows good condition overall with the only damage present is the broken turn key. Wear present form age and use over the years, light patina has formed. It measures 13" L x 13" W x 24 5/8" H and weighs 4 pounds and 4 ounces.

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