Interactive

Just a reminder. The Gazette is an interactive platform. So, we prefer dynamics of people asking questions; people answering, and learning more about Steuben and collecting from other collectors’ insights. Self conscious about asking or answering? Just ask to be treated anonymous.

Yesterday’s Questions

We had two questions. Finding lamp parts and what effect does a lamp drilled hole have on a vase’s value.

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Helaine Fendelman of NYC answers–

Alan. A “mere” whole destroys the integrity of the original use, intended look and value of any piece of glass.

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Myrna Wilson of Wayland, MA shares her experience–

I brought four Steuben lamp shades to Yankee Craftman in Wayland, MA and they attached them to an antique fixture which hangs above the landing going up to my second floor. Spectacular!! I would highly recommend them. It would be my thought that a call to them would be my first choice.

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Deanna Gordon of Vinton, VA has patience and says:

The second part of the help request asked about prices of vases drilled for lamps. It seems to me that no matter how well the drill is done, it is a damaged vase and the price will reflect that. On the other hand, many Steuben bases were originally produced as lamps and I see those lamps bring excellent prices.

As to having a drilled vase fitted with period pieces, I can think of three avenues of pursuit. The first is to attend auctions or sales, hoping to find pieces with damage to the glass and buy at a price that allows the old metal fittings to be reused. Lots of patience and luck required on that one.

Secondly, there is a well-established and highly recommended lamp restoration firm, Nowell’s in San Rafael, CA. Their web site carries sufficient background to determine if they might be of assistance. I have no personal experience with them.

Finally in Roanoke, VA there is Black Dog Salvage, a nationally known group that has an excellent lamp repair staff member. They have done good repair work for me but I have no idea if they would have a stock of period parts. They, too, have a good website.

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Leigh Alan Demrow of Janesville, WI shares his thoughts on under rated lamps

Alan, The answer to the “why” question of drilled vases is there are less collectors of lamps than glass. Glass collectors want flawless glass. Lamp collectors buy mostly for the shade not the base. I’ve always thought drilled vases with original factory hardware were under rated and under priced. I’ve added a photo of a great 10 inch piece just sold at SaSanin’s on 03/21/2015 for only $475.00.