What is a standard lamp?

A standard lamp is simply the traditional British term for a floor lamp designed to stand independently in a room. These tall fixtures hold shades at eye level to provide general illumination without requiring furniture surfaces.

How do adjustable stems work?

Adjustable stems utilise a sliding inner rod secured by a thumb screw or key to raise or lower the light source. This telescopic movement allows the lamp to adapt to different seating heights and room requirements.

What materials are most common?

Brass and carved mahogany form the majority of the upright shafts across the Victorian and Edwardian periods. Giltwood and marble also appear frequently in decorative styles inspired by Neoclassical and Baroque designs.

How do I date these lamps?

Dating relies on combining the stylistic clues of the base, such as Art Nouveau curves or Corinthian capitals, with the primary construction materials. periods like the Victorian era favour heavy brass and dark woods, while later decades introduce lacquered finishes and giltwood.