Napoleon III Rococo Revival Crimson Crystal Urn Table Lamp with Gilt Bronze Mounts

Design & Inspiration

There is a particular confidence that comes from placing a lamp like this on a side table — the deep crimson of the crystal body holds the light differently at dusk than it does at midday, shifting from a dark jewel-tone to a glowing ember as the room dims. This table lamp is faithfully reproduced in the tradition of Napoleon III Second Empire Rococo Revival lighting, the era when French decorative arts reached their most theatrical pitch. The urn-shaped body recalls the grand garnitures of the 1860s Parisian salons, where richly colored crystal vessels mounted in gilt bronze were among the most prized display objects a household could own.

Materials & Craftsmanship

The lamp base is formed as a classically proportioned urn in deep crimson crystal — vertically faceted to catch and refract light across its surface. Encircling the body at its widest point and again at the shoulder are cast brass mounts finished in gold, sculpted into foliate acanthus leaves and floral sprays that are characteristic of the Napoleon III decorative vocabulary. The base itself sits on a splayed gilt brass foot adorned with matching botanical ornament, giving the lamp a secure visual footing without heaviness. A slender brass column rises to support the ivory pleated shade, whose structured gathering diffuses light warmly downward. Every mount is individually cast and finished by hand, ensuring the relief detail reads clearly rather than blurring into a generic shine.

Dimensions & Details

Shade diameter: 40 cm. Weight: 4 kg. Bulb: E27 Edison screw, max 60W. Voltage: 110V/220V compatible. The lamp is available in multiple brass finish variants to suit different interior palettes.

Handcrafted in Egypt

Each lamp is handcrafted in Egypt by Brass & Wood artisans trained in classical European decorative techniques. The brass mounts are cast, finished, and assembled by hand; the crystal body is selected for depth and clarity of color. This is a piece that rewards close attention — the detail visible at arm's length is not the same detail you discover at a glance. Customization in shade color and brass finish is available on request.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials is this lamp made from?

The lamp base is crafted from deep crimson faceted crystal with handcrafted cast brass mounts in a gold finish. The shade is a pleated ivory fabric. The internal fittings are metal with an E27 Edison screw socket.

Is assembly required?

Minimal assembly is required — the shade attaches to the lamp base via a standard shade ring. No tools are needed.

Can this lamp be customized?

Yes. Brass & Wood offers customization in brass finish color (Gold, Silver, Antique Gold) and shade color. Please contact us before ordering to discuss your requirements.