A bold, sculptural late 20th century ceramic table lamp featuring a faceted architectural urn form in high-gloss terracotta glaze. Retaining its original eight-sided linen shade, original polarized cord, and original finish, this piece offers authentic early 1980s design character with modern loft appeal. Three-way switch for adjustable lighting.

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Full Description

This striking late 20th century ceramic table lamp embodies the architectural earth-tone aesthetic that bridged the late 1970s into the early 1980s. The body features an eight-sided faceted urn silhouette with crisp vertical planes and a subtly tapered profile, finished in a rich, high-gloss terracotta glaze that reads both sculptural and design-forward.

Rather than modernizing the piece, it has been intentionally preserved in its original character "” retaining the original eight-sided camel linen shade, original polarized brown cord, original brass hardware with natural patina, and original glazed finish. The faceted geometry of the shade mirrors the geometry of the ceramic body, reinforcing the architectural presence of the design.

The lamp operates via a three-way socket switch, allowing for adjustable light levels. When illuminated, the warm glow enhances the dimensional glaze and creates depth across the faceted planes.

Equally at home in a transitional interior, a retro-modern loft, or an architectural bedroom setting, this lamp functions as both lighting and sculptural object.

A confident and distinctive statement piece for collectors and designers who appreciate period authenticity and bold ceramic form.

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Measurements

Overall Height: 31"
Height from Base to Bottom of Harp: 19"
Shade Height: 15"
Shade Top Diameter: 7"
Shade Bottom Diameter: 17"
Widest Body Width: 9"
Base Footprint: 5.5"
Harp Height: 11"
Harp Width (widest point): 4.5"

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Condition Report

Very good vintage condition.

Original glaze finish is intact and vibrant with minor age-appropriate wear. A small glaze chip to the upper collar near the harp mount has been professionally color-blended to minimize visibility (see close-up image). This is cosmetic only and does not affect structure or function.

Original brass hardware shows natural patina consistent with age. Original polarized cord in good working order. Three-way switch functions properly. Shade remains structurally sound with light age-appropriate wear.

Fully functional and ready for use.

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Attribution / Period

Late 20th Century, likely early 1980s.
Designer unknown.

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SEO Tags

Architectural Lamp; Sculptural Ceramic Lamp; 1980s Table Lamp; Terracotta Glaze Lamp; Faceted Urn Lamp; Retro Modern Lighting; Transitional Table Lamp; Loft Style Lighting; Earth Tone Decor; Postmodern Accent Lighting


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: This lamp remains in very good vintage condition and retains its original form, finish, and hardware.

The high-gloss terracotta ceramic body presents beautifully, with strong color saturation and well-defined faceted planes. The glaze remains vibrant and dimensional, with light, age-appropriate surface wear consistent with careful use. There is no structural cracking, no glaze crazing of concern, and no instability.

A minor glaze chip to the upper collar near the harp mount has been professionally color-blended to soften its visibility. This area is cosmetic only and does not affect the integrity, stability, or function of the lamp. The touch-up has been intentionally executed to maintain visual continuity while preserving authenticity.

The original eight-sided camel linen shade is included and remains structurally sound. The faceted construction mirrors the geometry of the base and maintains its architectural presence. The fabric shows light, even aging consistent with age but no significant staining, tearing, or distortion.

The original brass hardware retains natural patina, contributing to the period character of the piece. No aggressive polishing has been performed, preserving its authentic finish. The harp remains true to its original scale and proportion.

The original polarized brown cord is intact and in good working order, with no cracking or fraying observed. The plug and insulation remain secure. The lamp is equipped with its original three-way socket switch, which has been tested and functions properly across all light settings.

The felted bottom remains intact and clean, protecting surfaces and indicating careful prior ownership.

Overall, this piece presents as a well-maintained, architecturally strong example of late 20th century ceramic lighting "” preserved in original condition with thoughtful cosmetic blending where appropriate.

Fully functional and ready for immediate use.

Dimensions:
Height: 31 in.
Width: 17 in.
Depth: 17 in.

Category: Table Lamps
Origin: United States
Materials: Brass Finish, Ceramic

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $189.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: No International Shipping for this auction.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Bakersfield, CA

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; This lamp remains in very good vintage condition and retains its original form, finish, and hardware.

The high-gloss terracotta ceramic body presents beautifully, with strong color saturation and well-defined faceted planes. The glaze remains vibrant and dimensional, with light, age-appropriate surface wear consistent with careful use. There is no structural cracking, no glaze crazing of concern, and no instability.

A minor glaze chip to the upper collar near the harp mount has been professionally color-blended to soften its visibility. This area is cosmetic only and does not affect the integrity, stability, or function of the lamp. The touch-up has been intentionally executed to maintain visual continuity while preserving authenticity.

The original eight-sided camel linen shade is included and remains structurally sound. The faceted construction mirrors the geometry of the base and maintains its architectural presence. The fabric shows light, even aging consistent with age but no significant staining, tearing, or distortion.

The original brass hardware retains natural patina, contributing to the period character of the piece. No aggressive polishing has been performed, preserving its authentic finish. The harp remains true to its original scale and proportion.

The original polarized brown cord is intact and in good working order, with no cracking or fraying observed. The plug and insulation remain secure. The lamp is equipped with its original three-way socket switch, which has been tested and functions properly across all light settings.

The felted bottom remains intact and clean, protecting surfaces and indicating careful prior ownership.

Overall, this piece presents as a well-maintained, architecturally strong example of late 20th century ceramic lighting �? preserved in original condition with thoughtful cosmetic blending where appropriate.

Fully functional and ready for immediate use.