Wiener Secession Table Lamp, 1890s

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Rare Austrian Art Nouveau / Wiener Secession Writing Desk Lamp & Inkwell, c. 1900-1905We are proud to offer an museum-grade … Read more Rare Austrian Art Nouveau / Wiener Secession Writing Desk Lamp & Inkwell, c. 1900-1905We are proud to offer an museum-grade masterpiece of early 20th-century Midden-European design. This exceptional combination of a desk lamp and integrated inkwell (encrier-lampe) is a textbook example of the prestigious Austrian Jugendstil and the groundbreaking Wiener Secession period.Design & Stylistic InspirationStanding at a substantial height of 37 cm, the ensemble beautifully captures the transition from organic nature to stylized geometry—the absolute hallmark of the Vienna design revolution led by visionaries like Josef Hoffmann and Koloman Moser. The heavy base is sculpted into a botanical form, mimicking a growing stem and a leaf that seamlessly flows into the structure. In a brilliant architectural twist, the arching stem bends forward to support the shade, which represents the blooming flower bud itself. The large dome shade (27 cm diameter) features a symmetry that contrasts beautifully with the organic base, inlaid with exquisite, gemstone-like glass cabochons that act as luminous dew drops when illuminated.Exceptional Craftsmanship & MaterialsUnlike French counterparts who relied mostly on uniform bronze, this piece showcases the quintessential Austrian mixed-metal mastery:The Base: Expertly hollow-cast in pure red copper (Kupfer). Casting pure red copper required supreme technical skill at the time, chosen intentionally to provide weight and stability for the writing desk. It is finished in a rich, deep chemical burnishing (gebruineerd) that gives it an elegant, historic patina.The Shade: Masterfully hand-hammered and chased (gedreven) from a single sheet of yellow brass (Messing). Every line and floral embellishment on the stem and base shows the signs of meticulous hand-chiseling and punching.The Details: The lower rim features period-correct antique fringes that soften the glow perfectly. Most importantly, the fragile, original glass inkwell insert has survived in pristine condition.Workshop Markings & ProvenanceThis luxury item was produced in small, elite workshop series. It features the Roman numeral 'VI' hand-stamped in 3 separate matching locations (including the inner rim of the cast base). These numéros d’assemblage prove that the shade, arm, and base were custom-fitted by the same master craftsman prior to finishing. This guarantees 100% historical integrity—this is an entirely original, unified object, not a later assembly.ConditionThe entire ensemble is in absolute top condition, retaining its magnificent original burnished patina. A truly rare opportunity to acquire a high-end, highly functional centerpiece of Viennese design history. This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution,
European Plug (up to 250V).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less