Antique early 20th century brass table or desk lamp possibly by Benson ? Arts and crafts. Stunning. The patina in this would have taken years and years to get. It could be polished, but personally I think it's stunning as is ( will require full rewire pat test etc ).
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Shown with another lamp. May sell together please contact us for pricing etc
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50 cm tall with shade
14 cm round at base
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The "Benson light" refers to the electric lighting and fittings designed by the English Arts and Crafts inventor and manufacturer William Arthur Smith Benson (1854-1924) in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Benson was a pioneer in electric lighting technology, known for his practical, durable, and often ornate designs that integrated with the Arts and Crafts style, incorporating natural materials and motifs. His work included advising on the use of electric light in homes and public buildings, and his lighting fixtures can be found in museum collections, such as the V&A Museum.
Key Aspects of Benson's Work:
Pioneering Electric Lighting: Benson was a leading figure in the adoption of electric lighting, a relative novelty at the time, and advised on its proper use and design.
Arts and Crafts Style: His designs featured the graceful curves and organic shapes characteristic of the Arts and Crafts movement, with an emphasis on the natural properties of the metals he worked with.
Innovative Designs: Benson is credited with developing the first practical, commercially successful electric lamp and also developed a process for making lamps from pressed powder.
Reflected Lighting: He was known for innovative lighting techniques, such as illuminating dining room tables with reflected light from shiny metal surfaces while keeping the bulb itself hidden from view.
Integration with Architecture: Benson sought a "complete synthesis" of architecture and decoration, ensuring his lighting fittings worked in harmony with the buildings he worked on as an architect and interior designer.
Influence and Legacy: His work was highly praised by contemporary critics, such as Hermann Muthesius, and continues to be appreciated for its quality, timeless style, and investment value.
Where to See Benson's Work:
Museums: Original Benson lighting can be seen in collections at the V&A Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Historic Homes: Examples of his early work, including the electrification of Standen in East Sussex, are still on display at the property, now owned by the National Trust.