French Empire Bouillotte Table Lamp

FRENCH EMPIRE BOUILLOTTE TABLE LAMP
Era: 1890-1935
Style: Empire
Origin: France

OVERVIEW:
An elegant French Bouillotte table lamp exhibiting classic Empire style characteristics, featuring a distinctive burgundy tôle peinte (painted sheet metal) shade and base with decorative brass accents. This authentic period piece demonstrates the refined aesthetic that emerged from the French Empire period and remained popular through the early 20th century.

SPECIFICATIONS:
• Height: Approximately 13 inches
• Material: Tôle peinte (painted metal), brass
• Origin: France
• Length Approximately 8.5 inches
• Width Approximately 4.5 inches

DESIGN ELEMENTS:
• Shade:
- Burgundy tôle peinte construction
- Decorated with gilt Empire motifs
- Ornate brass lattice trim on top and bottom edges
- Classical cherub and foliate designs in gold

• Base:
- Circular tôle peinte platform
- Decorative brass pierced gallery rim
- Classical brass paw feet
- Central column in matching burgundy finish
- Brass collar detail

• Technical Features:
- Adjustable shade height (original mechanism)
- Traditional tôle peinte techniques
- Hand-painted decorative elements
- Original brass fittings

CONDITION:
Very Good Antique Condition
• Original finish with natural patina
• Age-appropriate wear to painted surfaces
• All brass elements intact
• Functional adjusting mechanism
• No structural damage
• Original signature/maker's mark present on base

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
Bouillotte lamps originated in late 18th century France, named after a popular card game of the period. They were designed to illuminate card tables during gameplay. The style gained prominence during the Empire period under Napoleon Bonaparte, who favored classical motifs and military-inspired designs. This particular example, dating from the Belle Époque through Art Deco periods (1890-1935), represents the enduring popularity of Empire style in French decorative arts.

The tôle peinte technique used in this lamp was a highly regarded French metalworking craft, involving hand-painting sheet metal to create durable, decorative objects. The burgundy color scheme and classical motifs are characteristic of the Empire style's interpretation of ancient Roman designs.

DECORATIVE SUGGESTIONS:
• Period interior accent piece
• Traditional study or library table lamp
• Paired with Empire or French antique furniture
• Formal living room accent lighting
• Collector's piece for French decorative arts

AUTHENTICATION:
Original maker's mark on base confirms French manufacture during the specified period, distinguishing this as an authentic period piece rather than a later reproduction.