How do I clean a gilt wood lamp?

Dust the surface gently with a very soft, dry brush or feather duster to remove loose particles without disturbing the delicate leaf. Avoid all water, liquid cleaners and polishes, which can permanently strip or dull historic gold leaf and underlying gesso.

Are these lamps recently wired?

Most antique and vintage lighting offered by dealers has been updated with modern flex and plugs to meet current safety standards. It remains wise to have a qualified electrician inspect any vintage lamp before connecting it to a mains supply.

How do I date a gilt standard lamp?

Examine the timber species, the preparation beneath the gilding, and the turning style of the central column or baluster. Twentieth-century revival pieces often display machine-tooled elements, whereas nineteenth-century examples show hand-finished tool marks and denser core woods.

Can I use modern shades on these lamps?

Standard shade carriers and fittings accommodate a wide variety of contemporary fabric or parchment shades. Choose proportions that balance the visual weight of the carved wooden base without overwhelming the silhouette.