Hi Patrick,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

This is a copy of a fairly well-known bronze sculpture by Auguste Moreau (French, 1834-1917) titled "The Secret," which was so popular that it was replicated by numerous makers for years after it was originally made, in the late 19th Century (1880s-1890s). I believe that the name on the base once said "August Moreau" but it's been worn off - or didn't get properly inscribed to begin with.

Your lamp has a sweet, sentimental quality that was very popular in the early and mid 20th Century but which is not nearly as popular now. Despite being made of bronze or spelter (a less costly zinc alloy made with some parts copper, lead and tin). When similar lamps come to auction today, they rarely sell for more than $100.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A vintage cast and cold-painted bronze figural lamp
after "The Secret" by Auguste Moreau, early 20th Century
Depicting two bronze children, one carrying a bouquet, the other whispering in her ear, on a white stone(?) socle on circular brass foot, mounted as a lamp.
24 inches overall height
CONDITION: This appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$50-100*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia