Are these lamps originally electrical?

Many items started as oil lamps, candlesticks, or decorative statues before being converted to use electricity at a later date. Rewiring is common to ensure modern safety standards while retaining the original nineteenth or early twentieth-century body.

How do I identify French Empire style?

French Empire pieces display classical motifs, military trophies, and symmetrical architectural forms derived from ancient Rome and Greece. They rely heavily on patinated bronze combined with gilded ormolu mounts and dark marble plinths.

What is the difference between bronze and spelter?

Bronze is a heavy, durable copper alloy that takes fine detail during casting and holds a deep natural patina over centuries. Spelter is a softer, lighter zinc-based metal that was frequently painted or electroplated to resemble bronze in more accessible decorative items.

How should I clean the marble base?

Stone plinths benefit from gentle dusting with a dry microfibre cloth to remove surface particles without scratching the polish. Harsh chemical cleaners can damage the soft surface of onyx, alabaster, or marble, so moisture should be avoided.