This pair of English silver-plated student lamps, c.1830, is offered by Tarquin Bilgen, a London-based dealer, for £1650.
The silver-plated models feature rotating hoods to direct the light of candles on sprung holders. The lights are inserted by unscrewing the bottom and fixing the candle to a spring which pushes the wax up as it burns, saving scholars the time of having to raise or snuff a wick.
Student lamps were made to eliminate shadows. Made by various manufacturers, they also come in a number of designs. This early model is sometimes described as Scottish.
Bilgen, a member of BADA, previously worked at Sotheby’s and Mallett before opening his shop in Ebury Street. It features 18th-20th century pieces and new acquisitions are featured in email newsletters.
