What's it Worth? Appraisal of Antique Gone With the Wind Lamp

 

Gary asks:

I have a lamp, perhaps circa 1885. While I would call it an electrified
antique oil lamp, I see others referring to them as gas lamps. Is this a
“Gone With the Wind” type lamp or is there a more accurate description?

Who is F.G. Co and why can’t I find any information on them? The lamp measures
23” tall, has a 6” x 6” cast iron (?) base and a 9” hand-painted globe. I’m
guessing the metalwork is brass. Would I compromise it’s value by cleaning
the brass? I think I have a fairly good idea of its value, but I respect
your professional advice.

Regards, Gary

AW says: Hi Gary, thanks for your request, the first thing I want to say is that I don’t think you should touch the brass on it, let the patina age as it lends more authenticity.

I’ve come across this company’s name before, and had scant results. As near as I could tell it was actually a Pittsburgh foundry co that made cast iron bases, but not the lamps, however, I’m not spot on about that. The MFG of your lamp displayed their logo on the spout cap, and I suspect your may have an Alladdin lamp. Yours’ is shown without the spout cap, if you don’t have it, take 10-25% off of all prices quoted.

As you thought, it is a Gone with the Wind style lamp, and it’s oil, not gas, or was originally. The electrification of it does hurt it a bit, but these are commonly converted.

The floral work on it is hand painted and it’s got that dark Victorian green that defines the era.

Also, due to the excellent pictures you’ve sent, I can tell it’s in a very high grade condition and has a period chimney through center. All in all it’s a great example.

Date range: 1870-1900

 

 

Retail value: $325-$400
(top price)

Wholesale value: $150-$200
(The mid range price you could expect to achieve at a well advertised live auction. The price that is most often realized)

Quick sale value: $75-$95
The price your likely to get if you have to sell your item immediately and your prospective customer is aware of this.

Common terminology, nicknames, keywords: gone with the wind lamp oil lamp victorian lamp cast iron base brass collar,

Care and storage tips: I really only like to dust something like this. I’d never advise washing unless you are completely confident you won’t ruin the integrity of the paint job as a result.

Many times an attempt to polish the brass collar on these will result in paint damage on the glass if you slip, and the brass doesn’t seem to look right after polishing.