Studio RT Ltd

Description

We are delighted to offer for sale this early pair of William IV / Regency Argand type colza oil lamp reservoirs, later converted into electric table lamps, brass neo-classical double lipped urn shape, twin reeded, scroll handles with Janus masks to the lower point of the handles adjoining the body, by Perry & Co circa 1817-1833, fitted with later brass electric lamp attachment into neck and on later square stepped bases. The lamps have shades made by the company that provided lampshades for the Downton Abbey TV Series.

Before the invention of paraffin in 1850, oil lamps used colza oil and due to the viscosity of the oil, it had to be fed to the burners from reservoirs by gravity.

We know that these are by Perry & Co of 72 New Bond Street, London W.1, because we have found a pair of Argand lamps by this company sold by Christie's Mayfair in 2008, with identical reservoirs. William Perry founded the Perry & Co. in 1817 at the above address and in 1833, he took his nephew George Perry into the business and it became George Perry & Co.

The shades are in the 'Ballerina' style and have a body and crown of gold silk damask, with gold fringe, gold and black braid and black and gold beaded tassels.

The lamps have been newly rewired with antique gold silk covered twisted wire and all new fittings. As with all electrical items it is recommended that they be checked by a qualified electrician before use.

Height to top of shade: 19" - 48.25cm

Diameter of shade: 10 1/2" - 26.65cm

Diameter of base: 3 7/8" square - 9.9cm

Condition: Very good for their age, with some pitting to the brass, which is only to be expected after virtually 200 years. The shades are new.