Bankers Desk Lamp
A banker’s desk lamp is the most recognized, along with hurricane lamps. The common green glass shade, pull cord, brass base, and neck can still be seen in libraries, courthouses, banks, law offices, movies, and animated films. There are even animated versions in many animated movies or cartoons that can be seen. If you don’t think you’ve seen one, you’ve probably never noticed it, especially if it’s seen on television or in the movies. Many directors put them in the background of a set and show for authenticity or just as props.
Chances are, if you’ve ever watched shows, you’ve seen one.
Banker’s lamps have a long history and appear everywhere, even in today’s world. It’s no wonder they are sought after in the world of vintage desk lamps. Experts say one idea explains why they are so popular or sought after. It has to do with the original green shade. The color green is believed to be a psychological factor that helps relieve stress on the eyes. In addition, it is supposed to help the human brain to calm down and quiet down.
The standard shade was green outside with white opal glass on the inside. But over the years, different colored shades have been introduced, as well as those with patterns. But the green shade is still the most recognizable to everyone.
Bankers desk lamp Green glass shade
What is a banker’s desk lamp? The lamp has appeared in hundreds of movies, TV shows, and more. Anyone with access to movies, television, or classic films has seen one of these banker lamps with green shades. They have appeared in multiple cartoons, movies, sitcoms, and more but often go unnoticed, used as a simple prop in the background on a desk. Besides movies and TV shows, banker lamps were frequently used in libraries, banks (hence the name), and courtrooms.
Why were these lamps so popular? Well, experts said that the green glow of the light from the lampshade is easy on the eyes, soothing and relaxing. When Hollywood used them for filming, directors felt they added authenticity to the scene; the rest is history. Unfortunately, you won’t see them as abundantly as you once did in the real world. That’s what helps make them sought after and interesting to know.
History of the Banker’s Desk Lamp
Although the company refers to it as a banker’s lamp, its original name when it was created in 1909 was Emeralite because of the green color of the shade and the light emitted. The company that manufactured the lamp was called H.G McFaddin & Co., but it no longer exists today, although its creation lives on. Initially, the banker’s desk lamp’s shade was available in several colors. However, over time, the green lamp has become the one that has stood the test of time and is the most recognizable.
What materials make up the desk lamp
The materials of the banker’s desk lamp were made of simple and readily available materials.
Its shade was made of glass created using the doubled glass technique. This was done by fusing different pieces of glass and making one.
White opal glass was used inside the shade, and emerald green colored glass was on the outside.
Once they merged, they created a single piece of glass used to shape the lampshade we know today. These shades were placed over the lamp’s brass or metal neck and base. Glass and metal were the materials used to make such a piece of American history.
As they were produced, additions were made to the lamps. These additions included removable inkwells, pen holders, clocks, and event calendars. Many of these can still be found today on the antique market.
Placement and popularity
Banker’s desk lamps could be placed on any desk, table, or counter. They were sought after for their functionality, durability, ease of use, and other reasons. They gained popularity in the years leading up to World War II. Once the war was declared, it was difficult for the company to obtain glass from Europe, which led to changes in the lamp’s design and popularity. In 1962, the company, which had been sold and renamed several times, went bankrupt, ending the creation of the original banker’s lamp.
Although there are still companies that produce reproductions of banker’s lamps, the originals are highly sought after. The antiques and collectors market is a growing industry with an appetite for these lamps. If having a piece of history is what you are looking for, then be prepared to spend a good amount of money. If you are lucky enough to find an original and authentic banker’s desk lamp, it will have a price tag that reflects its history. But if you’re not as concerned about getting an antique or original banker’s lamp, several companies create replicas in today’s society.
While owning an original banker’s desk lamp would be a wonderful addition to any home or office, a reproduction of it could be just as valuable to you.
Realspace Traditional Banker’s Lamp
This brass desk lamp looks like the ones you see bankers use, hence the name. It also has the typical pull chain for the on/off switch. Standing about 14 ¾ inches tall, it received 4.6 out of 5 stars from customers who purchased it. Its traditional vintage desk lamp style is excellent for giving your home office a casual look and would fit well with most decors. Its price is not as high as you think, and it can be purchased at Office Max and Office Depot, in-store or online. The lamp has a nice, solid construction. It is heavier than others, and its base keeps the rest of the lamp stable.
Industrial Desk Lamp
Bring your office to life with an industrial desk lamp.
Working in low-light conditions can harm your eyes and negatively influence your inclination. An industrial desk lamp is now popular to bring light to your workspace. Have you discovered that your workspace is disappointing, or do you feel that the standard light coming in is insufficient? Maybe you don’t have any windows at all? Purchasing a lovely desk lamp can allow you to finish your office work and read documents, files, or complete reports even more efficiently. However, numerous alternatives are accessible in each size, shape, and shade in choosing the lamp. We’ve helped you narrow your decisions with this rundown of the best desk lamps for your home or office.
Lightblade 1500S Reading Desk Lamp
Undoubtedly, LED lamps are the most popular for your home, office, garage, workshop, or anywhere else you need excellent lighting. The Lightblade 1500S is stylish and sturdy and can be used in many environments such as those mentioned. It can run on low power thanks to the LED bulb, but you can still read off the documents on your desk, whether a vintage desk in your home office or an industrial desk in your office.
With the modern technology we all know today, this lamp comes with a USB charger for your smartphone and sensors in the base that make it touchable. The price tag averages under $80 when purchased on Amazon.
TaoTronics Stylish Metal Table Lamp
This lamp has an elegant yet classic look. It contains different wattage levels of lighting and memory capacity to remember your favorite settings. The neck, base, and base are all rotatable, and with its six different light settings, you have all the lighting you need for reading, researching documents, typing, and more. While it’s not a traditional brass, copper, or iron table lamp, it still has a touch of simplicity like eras past. The style is modern but still chic enough to be used in any office or decor. It also includes a USB port to charge your cell phone.
The price tag hovers around $65, depending on which retailer you buy it from.
Koncept AR300-C Industrial Desk Lamp
With a durable 9-inch base and cool white LED light, the Koncept AR300-C is sleek and innovative, all rolled into one durable and well-received lamp. It is designed to fit any workspace with elegance and class, even as an industrial desk lamp. The head rotates to the side and can be tilted up and down. The upper and lower arms also adjust to take full advantage of what this lamp has to offer. It also has a touch base for ease of use, and you can adjust it to be brighter or dimmer, depending on your specific needs.
The price of the Koncept is a bit higher, coming in at over $200, depending on the retailer you choose.
BenQ Desk Lamp
The BenQ is known to be the best industrial reading desk lamp. Although it’s smaller than the others, you can be sure it packs just as much power as the competitors. The BenQ is ideal for students, engineers, architects, and most people who want excellent lighting. However, this is not a bulky lamp that makes your desk look bigger than it is. The BenQ also has no-flicker technology that can help reduce eye strain and fatigue.
The price of this lamp is approximately $189.00, depending on the retailer you choose to purchase from.
Hudson industrial desk lamp – Threshold
The lamp shown here is sold exclusively at Target. One might think this is a lamp to be used in an industrial setting rather than a home office, but it can be used in both capacities. The lamp’s shade is made of glass and is available in various colors to choose from. The antique finish helps give it a more industrial look, but it would look just as good in a home office as in a work office. This lamp weighs only 2.5 pounds. Remember that it can be a little harsh when lit because of the glass shade, so choose a bulb that won’t hurt your eyes.
Magnifying Desk Lamp
A magnifying desk lamp for your workspace
Remember that a magnifying desk lamp is not just for people with poor eyesight. Often, it depends on your professional field whether you would benefit more from a regular desk lamp or a magnifying desk lamp. For example, antique collectors or jewelers would undoubtedly benefit from a magnifying desk lamp due to the complex nature of many objects they need to examine, from paintings to precious stones and metals. These lamps can be used for various reasons, and they put light right where you need it most to get your work done.
We combed the internet and found five of the best magnifying desk lamps. Check out the list to see if any of these lamps meet your immediate or future needs. They also make great gifts for the special person in your life.
Studio Designs Magnifying Lamp 12308
It can be used on almost any flat surface with ease. The adjustable arm measures 36 inches and contains steel springs and tension buttons. Make sure the pin is in place, or it will loosen. The Studio Designs 12308 Magnifying Lamp can be assembled and ready to use in less than 10 minutes. It has a 60-watt bulb that emits more than enough light to examine minor details or small intricacies. The magnifier is a 3-diopter glass lens and works great for focusing on the smallest things.
Pro Magnify Professional Arm Magnifier
It is energy efficient, and its bulb is close to natural light. The 5-inch glass lens it contains can increase vision by over 200%. It has a 3-foot-long cord that makes it easy to position it where you need it most. It includes a dust cover for the lens that can be removed without any problem. The arms are very flexible and can be positioned where you exactly need it.
TMS Gooseneck Table Magnifier
Extremely lightweight plastic base with a 5X magnifying lens and a 10-watt bulb that won’t hurt your eyes. The desk lamp can easily be moved anywhere on your desk where you need it, but it’s very lightweight. Its sturdy gooseneck will stay in position without a problem, and the lens comes with a dust cover. The lens measures 3 ½ inches.
Docooler Magnifier Lamp
The base of this lamp is heavier than most because it is steel-padded and thicker. It also has clips to keep documents or items in place while examining them. Its bulbs are bright LEDs, and it also comes with three magnification options. The size of the desk lamp is smaller, but it’s heavier than many others, stronger, and more durable.
Carson Daylight UN1030 Magnifying Lamp
This lamp can be powered by a battery or an outlet and is ideal in a power outage. The size is smaller than many others, but the adjustable neck makes up for its shortcomings. A 5X magnifying lens that measures 4″ gives you plenty of room to look through the lens. It fits perfectly in your workspace and won’t need to be readjusted frequently.
Vintage Desk Lamp
Another recognizable lamp is the hurricane lamp. Vintage hurricane lamps have a long history of use, even longer than many others. Storm lamps are thought to have originated thousands of years ago as sconces, and back then, animal fat oils were what lit them. Don’t forget that even though they have existed for thousands of years.
Their name appeared in 1780 when a Swiss watchmaker came up with the idea of an oil lamp with a glass globe/fireplace and a knob to control the wick and flame. That’s when the term “hurricane lamp” came about. And even today, they are mainly used as an emergency light source when the electricity is out.
Vintage hurricane lamps can be seen in various styles, including the original glass globe/mantel style. You can also find them with glass shades instead of the simple mantels they were built with. Depending on your generation, your parents or grandparents most likely had the style with the glass globe or a glass shade covered in a floral pattern. Regardless of the style, these lamps are an excellent piece of history. You can include the lamps mentioned above in your list when looking for an antique desk lamp.
How to choose a vintage desk lamp
When choosing a vintage desk lamp for your home office or study, how do you know if what you’re looking at is truly vintage or antique? While many use the two words, vintage and antique, interchangeably, there is a difference between the two terms. For the average person in society, it can be confusing, to say the least, to know the difference. The goal at this article’s end is to understand better the term “antique” versus the term “vintage” and to help you know what you are precisely looking for. Knowledge is a wonderful thing to have!
As you pursue this, remember that these are general standards many collectors follow. Also, other industry experts may still use the two terms, antique and vintage, interchangeably. However, now you know the difference when looking for the perfect desk lamp for the home or office.
Antique Desk Lamp
Age is essential in determining whether an item is vintage or antique. By trade standards, trade being the collection of antiques, an item is antique if it is over 100 years old. Some people in the collecting trade consider an item to be antique if it is over 80 years old, which to them is two generations. Generations are considered to be 40-year life spans. Much of the debate over whether 80 years or 100 years old also depends on the items themselves. For example, antique firearms are held to a different standard than antique desk lamps.
So to remind you, if you come across a lamp at least 100 years old, you have effectively acquired an antique desk lamp.
Vintage desk lamp
Again, age is essential in determining whether something is antique or vintage. To the general public and by general standards, the word vintage applies to a popular item from a past era. It is usually no longer popular or even manufactured as such today. Perhaps the best example of this is the 1920s Flapper dress. Most older people have heard of or seen what a flapper dress looks like. They are a popular Halloween costume in many places around the world. Flapper dresses were specific to their era and are not quite old enough to be considered antiques. Instead, they are considered vintage if you follow the 100-year rule, at least or a few years older. With that in mind, the age limit for a vintage item is 50 to 99 years old by trade standards.
So, as a rule of thumb in this case, if you come across a 50 to 99 years old, you have acquired a vintage desk lamp.
Whether you choose to purchase an antique desk lamp or a vintage desk lamp for your office, study, library, den, home office, or living room, you can be sure that owning one will add a certain sense of nostalgia to the space in which you decide to place it. Your newly acquired piece of history, 100 years old or 50, will be the subject of tantalizing conversations. Now you have the pros of knowing the difference between an antique and a vintage desk lamp.
Wrought Iron Desk Lamp
About a vintage wrought iron desk lamp
Wrought iron desk lamps get their name from the material used to make their base and overall body. They are versatile and add an elegant accent to a room, which has made them quite popular in interior design.
Although the term “wrought iron” has been misused in today’s market to refer to all sorts of bent metalwork, the true meaning is quite rich. It refers to iron that is heated to white and then hammered by a blacksmith to produce the desired shape.
Making wrought iron is quite technical and complex and requires a lot of work in steps like forged welding. Therefore, an authentic wrought iron lamp is often costly and rare. They are distinguished by their beautiful curves and the apparent hammering marks of the blacksmith’s workshop, which enthusiasts appreciate. They are forged under low carbon conditions, making them more impervious to rust than normal steel.
Pros of a wrought iron desk lamp
The wrought iron used in the lamp has a list of pros. It can be bent, hammered, and spun to create unlimited design options. The beautiful patterns incorporated into the iron add to the appeal and artistry of any home or office.
Wrought iron desk lamps are durable and seemingly unbreakable, unlike cast-iron lamps. You don’t have much to worry about if it falls out, other than replacing the bulb.
Once purchased, the floor lamp requires little maintenance. It remains weather resistant and only needs to be repainted if you notice paint peeling off every 3 years. Just dust it from time to time to keep it shiny.
Wrought iron is environmentally friendly and can be recycled, reused, or used for other purposes. Because the frame lasts so long, it minimizes waste.
Choosing a wrought iron desk lamp
Several models of wrought iron desk lamps are based on different patterns, designs, and sizes, among other properties. These are factors you should consider when choosing your lamp. Depending on where you intend to place it and the purpose and size of the area, it is too light. You can choose from a range of options.
For design offices, you may need smaller lamps that don’t take up too much space and don’t give off too much light. You can choose from simple patterned lamps with conservative designs to more intricate wrought iron models, depending on the room’s mood and desires.
An adjustable lamp is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a study lamp. Wrought iron desk lamps also come with hinges, handy when you want the light to be closer to you while you read. Also, don’t forget to choose an easy bulb for the eyes, especially if you plan to use the light for long hours.
Tiffany Desk Lamp
Good lighting will always remain soft and beautiful. Vintage lamps have come into their own and found expression in many forms. If you are looking for a perfect blend of aesthetics infused into the lighting, then the Tiffany desk lamp is for you. The desk lamp is a lamp with tinted glass shades, which makes it unique.
History of the Tiffany lamp
Let’s go back in time a bit. In the late 19th century, Louis Tiffany used his exposure and knowledge to produce lighting designs with mosaic glass shades that have remained relevant in the modern era. The lamps belong to different categories such as geometric, transition to flowers, irregular top edge, and many more. They are offered in really attractive shapes. The combination of attractive design, geometric shapes, and lighting helps to produce a warm atmosphere.
The right lamp for your room
The best deals for buying these lamps are in online stores. However, your choice of desk lamp is influenced by several factors. The first is your taste! How do you want it? A floral pattern or just a bright color combination? There are desk lamps with matching fixtures that look great on any office or homeroom desk. Another factor is space. The goal of a good Tiffany desk lamp is to provide more light while taking up just enough space. Your taste will determine how much space you want to reserve for light on your desk. Then there’s your budget. These desk lamps aren’t exactly cheap, but there are great prices for different types of buyers, including students.
Choose an authentic lamp.
There is a famous saying that information is the key. So, we will briefly give tips on identifying the original Tiffany desk lamp. The glass shade, when lightly tapped, makes a kind of clanking sound. Secondly, the base is usually bronze, although several exceptions exist. Another thing to watch out for is the stamp. There is a stamp with ‘Tiffany Studios New York’ and a series of numbers. Almost all desk lamps have this stamp, making them look the same. You also need to make sure there are no cracks in the glass. When you are about to buy your desk lamps, check them carefully.
When it comes to Tiffany desk lamps, you’ll never be able to exhaust the many beautiful varieties available. You’ll find one that perfectly suits your taste and style. Brighten up your office with these colorful desk lamps. You’ll indeed have no regrets.
Modern and Stylish Desk Lamp
You need to add some classes to your office. Don’t worry because a lamp that could meet your expectations is here. The green desk lamp is a different and unique solution to light your table or desk. This bright lamp will ensure that your desk has the desired illumination. You need enough light on your study desk because you might be reading, so this lamp might be your choice.
Green Desk Lamp
The green desk lamp can also be ideal for your living room. The lamp has the class that will suit your decor, whether it is modern or traditional. The green desk lamp should be chosen to match the background of your home. You certainly don’t want colors that don’t rhyme. Make sure your theme is compatible with this lamp. The lighting will be enough to serve your living room without the constraint of darkness.
Some of these lamps are just copies of traditional banker’s lamps. Some have the same shade or a similar base. But the best-sellers are entirely different.
They have adjustable stems, round shades, and polished brass bases.
Green desk lamps have been manufactured using the latest technology. The manufacturers have incorporated elegance and style to ensure that the customers get the best products. However, the lamp’s color has been chosen to be attractive when used in a different context. The lamps are also compatible with many shades on the market. Moreover, you can select a shade that is suitable for the type of light you need to emit.
Green desk lamps like banker’s table lamps are widely available in the market. Therefore, you can buy them in a physical store or order one online. You can get the lamp delivered at your convenience using online stores. If you need a lampshade, you should consider a few things. First, you must ensure that your lamp’s diameter is similar to the diameter of the mounting bracket. Clear space should also be between the glass lamp or bulb and the shade.
Try the green desk lamp today, and you won’t regret your decision!
White Desk Lamps
White desk lamp’s price
Light comes to mind when we think of lamps – a good, comfortable light source. Good lighting is essential at home, in the office, or hostel. A quality lamp we feel comfortable in can light up our space and give us the ambiance we need to feel relaxed and get on with our day.
Why would anyone choose a white desk lamp?
Let’s take a closer look at white desk lamps. These lamps are known for their brilliant aesthetic value and comfort of use. They provide a neutral light that can be combined in just about any room or decor. If you choose a white base or white shade, you can always combine colors with each. One thing that is becoming popular with white lamps is a white base with an interchangeable shade. This means you can design your lamp for the room of your choice.
Is a desk lamp right for you?
A desk lamp is a special lighting device that provides adequate light for your task. It is especially useful to put your workspace in the center of the light. The general light is fantastic, but the desk lamp allows you to provide that special light for a specific task. Desk lamps come in many attractive varieties. There are different sizes, shapes, and styles to suit different tastes. They have been found to serve certain functions. For example, older people need more light due to the effects of aging on their eyesight. The controllable desk lamp can help illuminate their environment while protecting them from glare. For a student, the study table is well lit with desk lamps. Learning and concentration are improved with sufficient lighting. Eye strain and headaches are seriously minimized.
Final things to consider
Buying a white lamp for your room or workstation depends on several things. The purpose of using a desk lamp at a workstation is to help you be productive with enough light to focus comfortably. While some lamps are the centerpiece of a room, a standard desk lamp should be subtle and blend in, so you barely notice it. Your personal preference for any light is critical, but what you like is an essential feature.
What style or size do you need?
These things are essential but not the most important. If you’re buying a desk lamp for studying or the office, you next need to consider your eyes. Adjusting the brightness levels to meet your eyes’ needs is a great feature. Another feature should be arm and head flexibility. You need to be able to point the lamp to where you want the most direct light to help you get the job done.
In summary, desk lamps have multiple functions: they help you see and beautify your table.
Copper Desk Lamp
Buy a copper desk lamp.
It’s true that when people have bright ideas, their heads start to glow like a light bulb. The story of the copper desk lamp is a perfect example of how a simple idea can be a game-changer for its inventors and users. Before the 1790s, when coal began to be used for lighting, humans relied on candles and rush lamps for light. In 1810, Humphry Davy presented the first electrically powered arc lighting system to the Royal Society. Commercial production of desk lamps began in the 1870s. Joseph Swann and Thomas Edison were the best-known producers, with Edison owning a production plant.
When did the copper desk lamp become common?
In the 1920s, inventors were looking for ways to make lamps with articulated arms. They began experimenting with ideas involving counterweights and parallelogram arm structures. The first desk lamp was made by Carwardine, an engineer, independent automotive designer, and vehicle suspension specialist. His copper desk lamp had an adjustable arm and head, allowing light to be directed where it was most needed. Later, Herbert Terry & Sons of Redditch, which supplied springs to Carwardine, saw the potential of his invention and requested his license to go into the production of these antique lamps. The company began selling its Anglepoise lamps in 1933. Later, a Norwegian trader, Jacobsen, an importer of sewing machines, switched his business to selling copper desk lamps. His involvement in the business helped popularize its use around the world.
Lighting offices for over 200 years
Copper desk lamps are more of an accent light than a general light. The lamps provide task-specific lighting for workstations to accomplish a specific task. This eliminates the need to light an entire room, promoting concentration and saving energy. Traditionally, lamps were commonly used by bankers and students who spent long hours looking at small numbers. The extra light on their desks prevented eye strain, improving productivity. Copper desk lamps are small and have a downward orientation. Natural steel lamps have a switch at the bottom or can be made with a small chain near the bulb that acts as a switch when pulled.
Brass Desk Lamp
Proper lighting for your home office is necessary to avoid problems like eyestrain and headaches, primarily since many people work in front of a computer, sometimes for more than eight hours a day.
After work, people often find themselves in front of a computer, tablet, or laptop, even after the workday is over. Buying a brass desk lamp is easy because of its quality and sleek design, and you can get one that matches most of the decor that your home or office may have. Below you’ll find five of the best-selling brass desk lamps out there.
Classic Polished Brass Swing Arm Desk Lamp
You can buy this item on eBay, Amazon, or directly from the manufacturer. It’s the perfect size for a small corner, home office, or even a bedroom nightstand. The lamp is lightweight, not bulky, and only 15 inches long and 11 inches wide. It weighs about 5 pounds and has a polished brass finish with a simple white shade. This is a popular traditional brass desk lamp with its simple yet sleek design.
Antique Brass Round Base Straight Piano Lamp
Although this one is on the higher price spectrum, it is a beautifully designed lamp. The House also makes it of Troy, which explains its higher price. But if you can afford it, this brass desk lamp would make any home office look elegant and sexy. It offers a rounded base, a polished antique brass finish, and a scroll shade. The shade is 14 inches long, the base is 6 inches in diameter, and the lamp measures 12 inches tall. The lamp uses two 40-watt T-type bulbs. Customers who own this lamp give it 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Gold desk lamp – Pillowfort
This simple design piece would be perfect for any office. It is a popular product that most people have seen in an office or home. It goes well no matter what type of workspace you have or what kind of home office you currently use. The movable neck can be adjusted to help you read, making this brass desk lamp a popular item with consumers. It weighs under 5 pounds and is activated by touch rather than an on/off switch. The lamp is sold exclusively at Target.
Antique Desk Lamp
Antique Desk Lamps and Shades
Antique desk lamps come in various styles, colors, sizes, and materials. You can search for antique desk lamps and get thousands of hits from search engines. Below you will find three different types, but there are many others not mentioned here that you may encounter in your search for the perfect lamp. An excellent point to remember when searching is the difference between antique and vintage. If you ask anyone in the antique business, an antique is 100 years old or more, and vintage refers to items at least 50 years old, but there are exceptions to these rules. But for now, keep these numbers in mind if someone tries to sell you something that is NOT antique or vintage.
Art Deco Table Lamp
Art Deco is often confused with Art Nouveau, but they are entirely different. First of all, Art Nouveau preceded Art Deco by about ten years. In addition, Art Nouveau also had a shorter lifespan than Art Deco. Even today, you can find many buildings created during the Art Deco era that are still standing and functioning. The same can be said for table lamps.
Art Deco table lamps were made to be luxurious, rich, and with more expensive materials. They also contained many curves, flowers, glasses, patterns, decorations, and more. Many were handmade with expert craftsmanship and intricate, artisanal designs. The Art Nouveau era lasted from about 1880 until around World War I. The Art Deco era, on the other hand, lasted from about 1908 until about 1935. It also depends on which source you believe. Both are excellent lamps to own from their respective eras.