Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Lamps

There is a huge market right now for collectible antique lamps and these functional decorative collectibles can brighten any home. If you’re looking for a collectible that is not only beautiful but also functional, antique lamps are the perfect answer. There are literally hundreds of thousands of these currently on the market and you should be able to find one that matches your tastes quite easily. Here’s a quick buying guide to get you started.

1. Does the lamp still work?

While this shouldn’t be a deal break since lamps are easy enough to repair, it is important to find out if the antique lamp is still in working condition. Remember, restoring or fixing an antique can impact its overall value, especially if you have to use brand new parts to get the job done. Ideally, an antique lamp should work, but you may want to have it checked out by a professional, depending on the age of the lamp, to make sure that it is safe to run in your home.

2. How old is the lamp?

This is a big issue when it comes to running the lamp on your standard house electricity. Some older antique lamps should probably only be used as decorative objects since they may be unsafe to plug in. Again, getting an expert opinion on this is probably necessary to make sure that you are dealing with a lamp that is safe to use as well as pretty to look at.

3. Does the lamp have any interesting history?

Antique lamps are great for conversation starters and it always helps to find out if there is an interesting history behind the lamp. This shouldn’t necessarily be something that would convince or keep you from buying, but it is information that is nice to have. In fact, in many cases, a lamp with a better history will actually be worth more money than one that does not have a known origin.

4. Is the cord in good condition?

We really can’t stress safety enough when it comes to antique lamps. Our other points covered whether the lamp still works, but you should also consider the state of the power cord before making your purchase. Antique lamps will commonly have older cords that may be frayed. These can easily be replaced, but doing so may lower the value of the lamp.

5. How many lamps of that type were made?

This is a question that any serious collector of antique lamps should ask. If you are looking for an investment in a collectible, it’s always important to find out just how many were made since this can greatly impact the overall value of the item, both real and perceived.

Antique lamps are a great collectible and many people prefer this type since they are actually quite useful in the home. Just remember to put safety first before purchasing and using an antique lamp in your home to avoid fire and electrical hazards.

Photo Credits: *clairity*

Originally posted 2008-09-14 14:00:47. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Lamps

Whether you are trying to restore an older home and would like to keep it in the period style, or you just appreciate older light fixtures, antique lighting has much to offer. There are many different styles from Victorian, to Art Deco to Modern that can adorn any home, working or non, and give it a certain special charm. Before you buy antique lighting however, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, you will need to make sure whether or not the antique lighting is operational. There is a risk for electrocution or fire whenever you are dealing with older lamps, and it is vital to have it properly checked out before you plug it in. If there are any loose wires, or the cord appears to be frayed, you should have it repaired immediately. Failing to do so could result in serious injury and lose of property.

Although antique lighting is beautiful, there are few issues that are present with older shades. Some of the material that was used back many years ago was quite flammable. Add that to a dried out and old shade, and you have a very serious fire risk. Consider replacing the shade, or look for antique lighting that has a glass shade so that you don’t have to worry about it.

Another thing to think about when you are buying antique lighting is the bulb that will be needed. Many very old lamps will have used bulbs that are no longer available and converting them may be impossible. While they make great display pieces, they won’t be able to be used. Always think about the type of bulb and make sure that replacements are easily available.

If you are buying a chandelier, it will be necessary to make sure that the cables are intact and not frayed, for safety reasons. You may also need to dip the crystal in an ammonia solution if it is very dirty. Chandeliers made of other materials will need to be cleaned as well. Always test the chandelier to make sure it works before you actually install it. Some antique lighting may not be operational and it’s best to find this out before you go to the trouble of installing it in your ceiling.

Lastly, if you are interested in Tiffany style antique lighting, it is important to make sure you are getting an authentic piece. There are many different styles of lamps that look very similar to the ones popularized by Louis Comfort Tiffany, but they are not as valuable as his original creations. Read up about this style of lamp before you go shopping to ensure that you are getting the best deal. With a little extra care, you can be assured that your lamp will be the valuable collectible you think it is.

Antique lighting is a unique decorative collectible and it’s one that is easy to find. If your home décor needs a bit of a boost, consider adding an antique lamp for a special touch.

Photo Credits: Rennett Stowe

Originally posted 2008-10-06 14:16:13. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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