How to Get Antique Lamps

Antique lamps come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

The word lamp is derived from the Greek "lampas," meaning torch, and lamps have been lighting the way for humans for thousands of years. You're unlikely to run across one of humankind's very earliest lamps, but there are thousands of types of antique lamps, and they're available online, at auctions and on the shelves of antique stores everywhere. You may pay thousands for an early 20th century Tiffany lamp or just a few dollars for an unknown that you think is attractive. Whatever your budget, collecting antique lamps can be fun and really adds character to your home.

Things You'll Need

• Money to spend on lamps

Instructions

How to Buy Antique Lamps

1. Using either a phone directory or the Internet, make a list of all the antique dealers in your area. No matter where you live or what size city you're from, there should be several antique shops in your area. If you're interested in learning more about antique lamps, it's a good idea to physically see the items, so that you can get an idea about the size, scale and condition of the lamp (and it'll help you to decide what you're interested in purchasing online in the future).

2. Place a phone call to each antique shop or dealer, asking specifically for the types of lamps they sell. Most of these will be classified in historical period. Popular choices for period lamps include Victorian parlor style (Fenton style), Art Nouveau or Art Deco (Louis Comfort Tiffany style), and Arts & Crafts Movement lamps (Frank Lloyd Wright and Stickley style). Once you have identified what types of lamps are available in the shop, inquire about prices and condition.

3. If you are new to the world of antique collecting, a good rule of thumb is to cross-reference the average price range of local antique stores with what is available for sale on the Internet. There are many antique stores online, and auction sites such as eBay sell antique lamps as well. Check out the average online prices before you commit to purchasing something locally.

4. Read further about your subject of interest. One of the reference standards on collecting antique lamps is titled Antique Lamp Buyer's Guide: Identifying Late 19th and Early 20th Century American Lighting, by Nadja Maril, and is available for online purchase at stores such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Borders. Another great book is Antique Trader Lamps & Lighting Price Guide, by Kyle Husfloen.

Tips & Warnings

• For more upscale antique lamp purchases, check the online auction houses Christie's and Sotheby's. Also eBay offers a wide range of styles, everything from bargain bin finds from Grandma's attic to an early Tiffany.

References

• Antique & Vintage Table Lamp Co.