Burnell and Rowe

Description

Here we have a fun Art Deco Sterling Silver Table Lighter from the 1930s. The lighter is modelled as an "Aladdin's Lamp" with a bird's neck and head on the handle. The base is weighted for stability. The "lamp" would have sat on a side table and been used by the gentleman to light their cigars and no doubt been a conversation piece.

The lighter was made in Birmingham by the highly regarded Barker Brothers Silver Ltd and dates to 1936 at the height of the Art Deco era. Founded in 1801 by Mary Barker, the firm became Barker Brothers in 1886 when Mary's grandsons were in control. They were based in Birmingham but also had pieces assayed in Chester and London. They were very successful silversmiths and electroplaters and remained in business up until 1992, latterly under the name Barker-Ellis Silverware.

Condition is very good, with no dings or dents and just the minimal superficial surface wear that has to be expected with use and the passage of time. Please make sure to view all the photographs.

The table lighter is 11.6cm / 4.5ins from tip to handle, 4.2cm / 1.6ins across and stands 7.1cm / 2.8ins high. It weighs in at 82.0g / 2.9oz but this does of course include the weighting material in the base.

The hallmarks, on the upper side of the base, are a little rubbed but still okay to read. They show the lion passant for Sterling Silver, the anchor assay mark for Birmingham, the date letter M for 1936 and the B.B.S.Ld in a shield makers' mark for Barker Brothers Silver Ltd. It is also stamped STERLING, MADE IN ENGLAND, which suggests it may have been intended for sale in the USA.

Shipping in the UK is £12.50 by Royal Mail Special Delivery, which includes cover for the value of the table lighter.
Overseas customers, please ask us about shipping costs to your country before making a purchase.