Vintage Hand-Painted Stork/Heron Porcelain and Brass Double-Socket Lamp
Unbranded (likely a mid-century boutique assembly or Japanese export component) · Art & Decor > Lighting > Table Lamps
Era / Decade
Mid-20th Century (1950s-1960s). The brass socket cluster, brown cord, and stylized hand-painted bird motif are characteristic of mid-century Hollywood Regency or Chinoiserie styles.
Material
Polished and patinated brass hardware, hand-painted ceramic/porcelain globe, and a weighted dark wood or painted metal base. Features a double cluster socket with pull chains.
Condition
Good. The porcelain appears intact without chips; however, the brass shows significant oxidation, spotting, and patina. One pull chain is missing or tucked away. The wiring is vintage and may need safety testing.
Demand Level
Moderate. Birds and Chinoiserie remain popular in grandmillennial decor, but the missing shade and current tarnish lower immediate impulse-buy demand.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$45.00 - $125.00 (Low: $45 as-is/local; Mid: $85 cleaned with shade; High: $125 professionally rewired with period shade)
Estimated Retail Value
$150.00 - $225.00 (comparable new boutique table lamps with hand-painted details)
Comparable Sales
Similar bird-motif porcelain lamps (e.g., Quoizel or Japanese imports) typically sell for $60-$100 on eBay. Double-socket brass lamps in excellent condition can reach $150+ in specialized vintage boutiques.
Description
Exquisite vintage mid-century table lamp featuring a hand-painted porcelain body decorated with a wading stork or heron among marsh lilies. The lamp is constructed with a solid brass neck and a double-socket light cluster. It sits on a tiered dark circular base. Standing approximately 24-28 inches tall, this piece offers a classic Chinoiserie aesthetic perfect for traditional or eclectic interiors.
Key Features
Hand-painted bird motif (highly collectible), dual lighting sockets for adjustable brightness, authentic vintage brass patina, and classic Chinoiserie appeal.
Authenticity Indicators
Confidence level: High. Construction methods like the turn-key on the neck and the specific style of brass sockets are consistent with 1950s production. No modern mass-market stamps are present.
Flaws to Note
Significant tarnish and age spots on the brass components; one missing pull chain; vintage two-prong cord will require inspection for safety; shade/harp is missing.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (for the vintage/home decor crowd), eBay (broadest reach for lighting collectors), or high-end local consignment shops/antique malls.
Selling Tips
Do not fully polish the brass; many buyers prefer the 'aged' look. Use keywords like 'Chinoiserie', 'Hollywood Regency', 'Heron', and 'Hand Painted'. Specifically mention if it has been tested and works. A custom pleated shade would significantly increase the final sale price.