M.G. Wheeler’s Sight Light Mid-Century Modern Adjustable Floor Lamp, All-Brass & Aluminum

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Description

How could M.G. Wheeler’s Sight Light be considered anything less than a manifestation of design genius?

Functionality races for prominence … Read more How could M.G. Wheeler’s Sight Light be considered anything less than a manifestation of design genius?

Functionality races for prominence right along with design excellence, the spare quality of that design being at the top of the list of design attributes.

This lamp is eminently adjustable, with the shade swinging around in any direction and easily brought up or down on the shaft. It’s got a three-way turn-key socket (original), which allows for “just the right amount” of light at any given time. An ideal bulb is the Westinghouse model that allows for 50, 100, or 150 watts of light, available at your "better" hardware stores or online. The cord and plug are original to the lamp, and in fine condition.

This lamp has a handsome solid brass base (a brass “shell” over an iron weight), rounded and overall in good condition, meaning no significant dents or scratches (it does have what I call “minor” scratching). The patina attests to long-time use; it’s possible it was originally lacquered and that lacquer has succumbed to the various atmospheric elements.

One of the three tiny finials that hold the painted aluminum shade in place is missing. I’m on the lookout for a replacement and will update this listing if I locate it, or should I say “when?” I’ll mail the missing finial to the buyer once I’ve acquired it as part of their purchase (no additional charge); for now there's a substitute device which holds the shade as it should. The paint on the shade and bulb cover is original and in the tan or beige realm of color. Some of the paint has small compromises -- where it's chipped off or otherwise slightly damaged.

The shade acts as a reflector and provides a soft, indirect light. The shade’s spare and futuristic design has been likened to a flying saucer, signaling the modern look of the lamp.

All in all, a most useful and stylish mid-century modern floor lamp.

Measurements: the top of the shaft measures about 42 inches high. The base is about 10 ½ inches in diameter, the shade about 11 1/2 inches. The shade and accompanying hardware travels the full length of the central shaft. See less