How do I distinguish spelter from bronze?

Spelter is a softer zinc alloy that feels lighter than bronze and often shows a dull grey metal beneath chips in the painted or patinated surface. Bronze exhibits greater weight, density and a richer underlying metallic tone when the patina wears at high points.

Were these originally wired for electricity?

Most pieces originating from the nineteenth century began as oil lamps, candleholders or candlesticks before later conversion to electricity. Art Deco and later twentieth-century examples were frequently designed from the outset to house electrical fittings.

How do I identify Art Deco figural lamps?

Art Deco pieces typically feature stylized female nudes, dancers or pierrots with geometric streamlining, smooth surfaces and materials like marble, frosted glass and cold-painted metal. These contrast sharply with the organic, flowing plant tendrils of earlier Art Nouveau designs or the ornate scrolling of Rococo Revival pieces.

Can I find matching pairs?

Matching pairs appear regularly among cast metal candlesticks and porcelain lamps, often produced as garnitures or mantel ornaments. Single lamp bases also occur frequently, particularly when sculptural bronze or carved wood figures were converted individually.