Neoclassical Floor Lamp with Tall Drum Shade
Lighting / Floor Lamp · Neoclassical Revival, likely Mid-to-Late 20th Century (circa 1960-1980) · Likely a manufacturer such as Stiffel, Frederick Cooper, or Laurel Lamp Co., known for heavy brass neoclassical pieces.
Type
Lighting / Floor Lamp
Style Period
Neoclassical Revival, likely Mid-to-Late 20th Century (circa 1960-1980)
Material
Brass-plated or solid brass base, black enameled or painted metal center column, and a linen-textured fabric shade over a hardback frame.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1985; based on the socket type, cord gauge, and the specific aesthetic of the tall 'extra-long' drum shade.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 58-62 inches; shade diameter approximately 14-16 inches with a height of 24 inches. It is taller and slimmer than a standard table lamp but shorter than many modern torchiere lamps.
Origin
Likely American or European manufacture; common in high-end residential interiors within the United States during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Designer/Maker
Likely a manufacturer such as Stiffel, Frederick Cooper, or Laurel Lamp Co., known for heavy brass neoclassical pieces.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD depending on the specific manufacturer mark (e.g., Stiffel) and current demand for vintage lighting in the regional market.
Description
A stately Neoclassical revival floor lamp featuring a tiered, heavy brass base and a sleek black central column. The piece is crowned by an unusually tall, vertical-emphasis drum shade that creates a dramatic silhouette. Its design bridges the gap between traditional Regency styles and the cleaner lines of Mid-Century transitional decor.
Key Features
Extra-tall drum shade with dark trim; stepped neoclassical brass base; contrasting black and gold-tone palette; slender columnar profile.
Color & Finish
Antiqued brass finish with a dark patina on the base and neck; satin black finish on the columnar body. Shade is an off-white or oatmeal linen with dark piping/trim.
Construction Method
Industrial machine-made assembly; components are likely threaded together on a central steel pipe. The shade is a standard wire-frame hardback construction with glued seams.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Screw-together structural components; precision-machined metal spinning for the base and neck sections. The craftsmanship is high-quality commercial grade.
Wood Grain & Species
None; the piece is primarily metal. The black section is an opaque finish over a metal substrate.
Surface Treatment
Lacquered brass finish to prevent tarnish; powder-coated or baked enamel black finish on the main shaft showing a mild sheen.
Upholstery Details
N/A (Lighting fixture). However, the shade features a textured woven fabric (likely a blend) with vertical slubbing and dark brown or black piping top and bottom.
Hardware & Fittings
Standard turn-knob socket, brass finial (partially visible), and a black PVC electrical cord. The base shows stepped concentric rings.
Origin & Provenance
Likely American or European manufacture; common in high-end residential interiors within the United States during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The finish appears intact without significant pitting or corrosion. The shade is upright and free of major crushing or staining. Cord appears to be in safe, pliable condition.
Interesting Facts
The 'extra-tall' drum shade was a hallmark of 1960s luxury lighting, often used to add vertical interest to rooms with low-slung Mid-Century furniture.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Hollywood Regency' and 'Transitional' movements where traditional motifs were simplified for modern 20th-century suburban living.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Stiffel 'Candelabra' lamps; distinguished by its single-pole construction and the specific use of a black-finished shaft rather than all-brass.
Care & Maintenance
Dust with a dry microfiber cloth. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners on brass finishes. Shade can be lightly vacuumed with a brush attachment; do not use water on hardback shades.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD depending on the specific manufacturer mark (e.g., Stiffel) and current demand for vintage lighting in the regional market.
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable due to durability; metal lamps of this era were built to last decades and are easily re-wired rather than replaced.