What periods do these lamps come from?

The pieces date from the nineteenth century, including Victorian examples and the 1880s, through to the early decades of the twentieth century. Dates span the 1900s, 1910s, and 1920s. This timeline captures the period of British interaction with Indian craft production, reflecting the styles popular in domestic interiors of those eras.

How were these lamps used originally?

These items functioned as table lamps to provide task and ambient illumination in domestic rooms. Their decorative bases served as visual centrepieces on side tables. Many examples have been rewired for modern electrical use while retaining their original hand-painted and carved bodies.

What materials make up these light bases?

Makers utilised wood, including carved walnut and turned wood, alongside papier-mache and brass. Fabric elements also accompany certain lamp assemblies. Surface decoration frequently involves hand-painted pigments and gilt gold applied over the base material.

How do Kashmiri and Anglo-Indian styles differ?

Kashmiri pieces focus heavily on papier-mache and hand-painted floral or decorative motifs. Anglo-Indian works often blend traditional Indian forms with British furnishing requirements. Both styles utilise regional craftsmanship to create distinctive lighting pieces for the home.