Two settings for the lighting
This lamp is a beautiful nod to the original French bouillotte lamps of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, reimagined for modern use. Bouillotte was a popular card game during the Louis XVI period, and these lamps were designed specifically for it, traditionally outfitted with candles and a metal shade that could be lowered as the candles burned down. This version captures that same elegance, but with the practicality of electric wiring and dual light settings.
The base is crafted in a pewter-toned metal with the look of a classic three-arm candelabra, a form that adds sculptural interest even when the lamp is off. The black tole (metal) shade adjusts vertically along the central stem, a feature retained from its 18th-century predecessors. A looped finial and key-style tightening screw finish the silhouette with a touch of old-world charm.
It’s a piece that bridges centuries, a practical, stylish addition to any writing desk, entry console, or reading nook that leans traditional, collected, or European-inspired. The two-level lighting gives you the option of a soft ambient glow or brighter task lighting, making it just as functional as it is refined.
Condition:
Good vintage condition with signs of age that add character. The pewter-finished base and the top of the black tole shade both show natural patina and scattered surface wear consistent with use and age. The black painted metal shade has small scuffs and a few minor dimples, typical of vintage tole. The adjustable mechanism functions smoothly and holds the shade securely. Lamp is wired for electricity and features a two-setting light output. No maker’s mark is visible.
