An antique majolica style pottery oil lamp, unattributed maker, probably American, first half 20th Century
The base is ceramic and is stamped on the bottom with "514 W & J". The top piece is brass. The dial on this piece is stamped with what looks like "PAT. FEBY 27 1877". The smaller piece that holds the wick unscrews from the main brass base. There is a glass chimney. I think that there may have also been a shade that rested on three brass arms that extend out, but that piece was broken years ago. (I haven't been able to find a similar lamp online to help me identify an appropriate replacement for this.)
9" high x 4.5" wide (at the widest part of the base)
Inherited
Yes
Hi Ellen,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
I can't find the 514/W&J mark in any of my pottery marks books OR in an online search, suggesting that this was a small-production company that has few survivors.
The market for oil lamps is soft overall. Marked or attributable lamps of any size rarely sell for more than $100-150, with unattributed lamps bringing even less, usually $50-75
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An antique majolica style pottery oil lamp
unattributed maker, probably American, first half 20th Century
Of circular section and bulbous form the body with pierced short neck and bulging waist with incised decoration, on a turned flaring foot, surmounted by a brass cover with pierced collar and glass hurricane shade. In a deep yellow-orange glaze, the underside marked "514 / W&J"
9 inches high; greatest diameter: 4-1/2 inches
CONDITION: This appears to be in generally good condition with some some pitting throughout and minor losses to foot.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$50-75*
*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
