Some More Questions and Answers About Antique Lamps.

Interest in collecting antique lamps is very high these days.

In an effort to help those who might be interested in this area of antiques and collectibles, this article will attempt to address some of the common questions and answers associated with antique lamps.

Question - Which antique lamps are the most valuable?

Answer - There is no single make or style of antique lamp that is the most valuable. Those made by the Stiffel Company and Handel lamps are very popular because they were very well made and beautiful. Antique brass floor lamps are very popular, as they are easily rewired and placed into everyday use. Many styles of antique art deco lamps are also very well-loved, in part because the style and artistic value are so high.

Question - Isn't it best to collect antique oil lamps?

Answer - Antique oil lamps are certainly older, as a general rule, and might, therefore, be more valuable as antiques. However, the construction, materials and design of antique electric lamps make them very valuable as well. Two of the most popular antique oil styles are the antique bankers' lamp and the antique student lamp.

Both are quite easy to find (because they were so very popular) and parts are fairly easy to find for them, which means that they can be restored to working condition very easily. Antique carriage lamps and other antique kerosene lamps are also quite easy to find and are highly valued. An antique porcelain lamp might also be very collectible. They can be oil or electric models. Either type is usually painted and fairly ornate.

Question - What kinds of antique electric lamps are valuable?

Answer - Antique torchiere lamps are very well-liked. In addition to their distinctive look and decorative value, they are also high-quality lighting fixtures, since they provide bright indirect lighting. Many varieties of antique porch lamps are also very attractive and sought after.

Question - What is the best way to get started with collectible antique lamps?

Answer - The most important things that a new collector can do are learn and compare. There are four excellent resources available to one who is interested in learning more about antique lamps.

There are lots of good books written about the subject, and those are available online or in local libraries. The Internet provides a perfect place for a collector to view samples and compare prices and quality. Antique malls and shops are also a great place to learn. Finally, a collector should always check out yard sales, garage sales, and flea markets for that rare (but very possible) treasure.

By Hwang Keum-OK