Traditional Brass Floor Lamp with Pleated Shade
Other, Lighting/Floor Lamp · Traditional / Transitional (Late 20th Century) · Unmarked mass-market manufacturer, common to mid-to-late 20th-century home goods retailers such as Target, Lamps Plus, or HomeGoods
Type
Other, Lighting/Floor Lamp
Style Period
Traditional / Transitional (Late 20th Century)
Material
Brass-plated metal pole and weighted base, fabric empire lampshade with pleats
Age Estimate
Estimated circa 1990-2010 based on standard transitional styling and common retail manufacturing patterns
Dimensions
Estimated height: 58-60 inches, Base diameter: 10-12 inches, Shade diameter: 14-16 inches at base. Typical size range for a standard living room floor lamp.
Origin
Likely manufactured in Asia (China or Taiwan) for the mass-market North American home decor retail sector
Designer/Maker
Unmarked mass-market manufacturer, common to mid-to-late 20th-century home goods retailers such as Target, Lamps Plus, or HomeGoods
Value Estimate
Retail value estimated between $50 and $150 USD depending on the specific retail brand and current local secondhand market demand
Description
An elegant and functional traditional floor lamp featuring a slender, polished brass-finished metal column rising from a stepped, decorative circular base. The fixture is topped with a classic empire-shaped fabric shade with delicate vertical pleating, which diffuses a warm, ambient glow. Its timeless profile makes it a versatile lighting solution that blends seamlessly into traditional, transitional, or eclectic interior schemes.
Key Features
Slender brass column, stepped decorative weighted base, classic empire pleated lampshade, warm metallic sheen
Color & Finish
Polished and lacquered brass finish providing a warm, reflective golden metallic sheen; off-white textured fabric shade
Construction Method
Machine-made assembly with threaded metal components and a weighted internal base for stability
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Standard commercial manufacturing with threaded joints securing the vertical pole sections to the weighted base
Wood Grain & Species
Not applicable; no wood components are present in this lighting fixture
Surface Treatment
Smooth electroplated brass finish with a protective clear coat lacquer to prevent tarnishing
Upholstery Details
Not applicable to this piece, though the shade features fine vertical accordian pleating with matching trim
Hardware & Fittings
Standard brass socket fitting, likely utilizing a three-way rotary switch or pull chain concealed beneath the shade
Origin & Provenance
Likely manufactured in Asia (China or Taiwan) for the mass-market North American home decor retail sector
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. The brass finish appears bright with minimal micro-scratching or oxidation. The lampshade is clean and structurally sound with no visible tears or discoloration. Overall structural integrity is solid.
Interesting Facts
Floor lamps originated in the seventeenth century as candle stands before transitioning to oil and gas, and finally electricity in the late nineteenth century. Pleated empire shades were historically used to soften glaring light bulbs and add a layer of textural sophistication to formal rooms.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of interior design in the late 20th century, where classic lighting archetypes were mass-produced to bring traditional elegance into everyday middle-class homes.
Similar Pieces
Mid-Century Modern arc lamps or buffet lamps, distinguishable by their distinct period silhouettes and materials like teak or chrome
Care & Maintenance
Dust the brass column regularly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or chemical polishes which can strip the protective lacquer coating. Gently vacuum or dust the fabric shade using a soft brush attachment.
Value Estimate
Retail value estimated between $50 and $150 USD depending on the specific retail brand and current local secondhand market demand
Sustainability Notes
While not constructed from reclaimed or eco-certified materials, this durable metal fixture represents sustainable use through longevity and repairability, as standard electrical sockets and cords can be easily replaced rather than discarding the entire lamp.