Vintage 1930s Modernist Art Deco Lamps by Barbara Baldwin New York World’s Fair - a Pair

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These are an original pair of 1930s modernist, Art Deco painted composite (perhaps plaster) lamps by American sculptor and painter … Read more These are an original pair of 1930s modernist, Art Deco painted composite (perhaps plaster) lamps by American sculptor and painter Barbara Baldwin (A pair of the same sculptures by Baldwin of the same size (not mounted as lamps) were offered at the French auction house of Jean Emmanuel Prunier in 2017. In the catalogue entry this pair was entitled “Allegories of the Land and the Sea”, and the auction house noted that they were made in 1938 for the New York World’s Fair (1939). Her obituary noted that she “did several monuments and architectural sculptures for the two New York World’s Fairs.” Finely detailed and cast, these are rare examples of Baldwin’s early work. I have not been able to find any other World’s Fair reference or anything about edition size of the sculptures. The pair offered here clearly originated as lamps, which I purchased from an old estate about 20 years ago.

Who’s Who in American Art notes that Baldwin studied at the Portland (Maine) School of Fine Art, Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, National Academy of Design, and Art Students League. A former student of hers noted that she studied with American sculptor John Ettl, founder of Ettl Studios which specialized in the enlargement of sculptor’s models for casting. She exhibited at the Society of Independent Artists in 1936, at the 1939 World’s Fair in New York, and at the National Academy of Design in 1944 and 1947 among many other shows. She was given the title of “Sculptor of Maine” by the Governor of Maine and his art council.

I have left these lamps original and untouched. They are in very good vintage condition with some minor wear consistent with age and use. Please see all photos. Wiring is working and is in as-found condition. I can have them rewired if you wish. Included are the finials found on these as well.

These would be perfect as a modernist or Art Deco accent in any interior but also are particularly relevant for the collector.

Height to top of finial: 31”
Diameter of base: 5.5”
Height to top of sculpture: 18” See less