For sale is a beautiful and authentic early 20th-century likely French “Lampe d’Étudiant” – the iconic adjustable student desk lamp that has been a symbol of Parisian libraries and studies for over a century. Dating to circa 1910–1920, this example is finished in its original deep bottle-green tole peinte (painted tin) with exquisite hand-stenciled gold laurel wreaths and ribbon bows – classic Empire/Directoire revival decoration that instantly evokes Napoleonic elegance. The heavy sheet-brass body, turned brass rings, and cast finials speak to the high quality typical of Parisian and Lyonnais workshops of the period. 

Key features: Original paint and gold stenciling, felt base intact, heavy quality (over 6 lbs), made during the early electric era.

Decorative cylindrical “font” with hand-painted gold wreath (this version was manufactured as electric from the factory – the font is sealed and houses the wiring, not oil)

Original 8-inch circular base protected by its century-old green felt underside (perfect for mahogany or leather desks)

Color: Original dark green with hand-painted gold laurel wreaths and ribbon bows  

Age: circa 1905–1925 (transitional period when many French makers produced these already electrified from the factory)  

Material: Heavy sheet brass covered in green enamel, solid cast-brass turned details, original felt base  

Age & Origin: Likely France, circa 1905–1925. These were made in large numbers in Paris and Lyon during the early electrification boom. Exact maker unknown (most were unmarked), but identical examples are attributed to workshops that supplied big department stores (Galeries Lafayette, Le Bon Marché) and export markets.

Item dimensions: 25.5 in tall × 14.5 in wide × 8 in deep  

Weight of item only: 6 lb  5 oz