French Empire Lacquered Wood Column Table Lamp — Gilt Neoclassical Ornament, Lilley Fitting, England

A column of deep lacquered crimson, crowned with hand-gilt neoclassical ornament — this French Empire table lamp base carries the quiet authority of a tradition that has never gone out of style.

DESCRIPTION:

An ideal piece for interior designers seeking a statement lamp base with genuine period character, collectors of French Empire and neoclassical decorative arts, or hospitality buyers sourcing original vintage lighting with warmth and distinction.

A French Empire style column table lamp base in deep crimson lacquered wood, hand-decorated throughout with gilt stencilled neoclassical ornament — acanthus leaves, palmettes and scrolling arabesques on the column shaft, with acanthus panel decoration to each face of the stepped square plinth. A decorative gilt band runs around the plinth base — a characteristic ornamental device of the Empire period. The column rises from a turned and gilt base collar to a brass fitting by Lilley (S. Lilley & Son), Birmingham, England — one of Britain's oldest lamp fitting manufacturers, established 1840 — confirming later British electrification of what is almost certainly a Continental original. French Empire style, circa mid-20th century. Lamp shade not included.

H approx. 60cm to fitting (H 23.6")

CONDITION: In good vintage condition consistent with age. Natural wear to the gilt decoration throughout — particularly to the plinth base and upper column — consistent with age and handling. The lacquered wood body is sound and intact. Lamp tested and in full working order. PAT tested 27/03/2026.

Photographs form part of this description. Please review all images carefully as they document the piece's condition in full detail.

CURATOR'S NOTE: Selected for the quality and richness of its gilt decoration and the depth of its lacquered ground — this is a lamp base that commands a room without demanding an audience. Pair with a dark silk or parchment shade to complete the Empire mood, or let it stand alone as a sculptural object.

FAQ:

What is the condition? Good vintage condition. Natural wear to gilt decoration consistent with age. Lacquered wood body sound and intact. Fully working, PAT tested 27/03/2026. Photographs form part of this description.

What are the exact dimensions? H approx. 60cm to fitting (H 23.6"). Lamp shade not included.

Where does it come from? French Empire style, circa mid-20th century. Later electrified with brass fitting by Lilley (S. Lilley & Son), Birmingham, England, established 1840.

Suitable for film or TV prop use? Yes — period-accurate for French Empire, Regency and neoclassical period interiors. Available for prop hire enquiries. Please contact us directly to discuss.

Do you ship internationally? Yes — Fontaine London ships worldwide. Prices shown include duties and taxes for your country (DDP — Delivered Duty Paid), so there are no surprise charges on delivery. Shipping cost is calculated at checkout.

What is your returns policy? We offer a 14-day return policy for items that do not match their description. As all pieces are one-of-a-kind vintage items, we ask buyers to review all photographs and the condition report carefully before purchasing. Photographs form part of the item description.