Antiques & Collecting: Casting light on artistic lamps

Before the use of electric lights, lamps were designed to cast as much light as possible. With the introduction of electric light bulbs, invented in 1879, lamps took on new forms and functions. In some cases, lampshades had to soften the light instead of amplifying or directing it.

In the early 20th century, designers created lamps with new materials and previously unseen shapes. Fulper Pottery, established in New Jersey in 1860, started its artware line, Vasekraft, about this time.

Its Vasekraft lamps had pottery shades and bases decorated with Fulper’s famous glazes. The shades had inset panels of stained glass to let the light through. These aren’t the only lamps that Fulper made, however.

This parrot-shaped pottery lamp with tilted head, slightly open beak and colorful plumage was made by Fulper. It sold for $375 at an auction by Dennis Auction Service, Inc. There is a socket for a light bulb concealed in the base; the entire parrot and the top of its perch detaches and acts as the shade.

I’m downsizing and am interested in selling my Wedgwood Orange Florentine demitasse and saucer collection. I checked eBay and other sites, but am unable to come up with a selling price. Can you please help me out?

Wedgwood pottery started in Burslem, England, in 1759. Florentine pattern was designed in 1931. The ornate border with mystical dragon-like creatures was made in many different colors. Pieces were made with or without center decorations.

Recent prices for Florentine demitasse sets with no center decoration range from about $20 to $48. A demitasse set with coral border and floral center was listed for $70. Orange seems to be rarer than other colors and may sell for more.

Wedgwood is still in business and currently makes Florentine in turquoise. It also includes some Florentine accent pieces in its Renaissance collection. The company lists a Florentine Turquoise cup and saucer for $140.

Tip: If there are two handles on a drawer, open the drawer using both handles. It lessens the strain on the joints.

Current Prices

Bronze, vase, ikebana, figural base, turtle, head raised, long tail, flared ruffled rim, lily pad shape, turtle side handles, silver inlay, Japan, 4 1/2 x 4 3/4 inches, $120.

Quilt, appliqué, Dresden Plate, multicolor, cream ground, multicolor scalloped border, black floss embroidery, c. 1930, 84 x 66 inches, $320.

Candlestick, photophore, flared shade, gilt metal base, flower shaped bobeche, round stepped foot, square base, four paw feet, 16 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches, pair, $770.

Rug, Oushak, Angora, ivory ground, allover multicolor vines, stylized flowers, light blue trim, Turkey, 14 feet 3 inches x 10 feet, $1,665.

Carousel figure, horse, standing, front left hoof raised, painted, black, red saddle, blue and green markings, Gustave Dentzel, Philadelphia, late 1800s, 65 inches, $3,625.