If you are an antique collector or a true lamp lover, you have probably heard about Falkenstein lamps. These lamps are extremely valuable and appreciated, so it’s no wonder that you’re interested in how to identify a Falkenstein lamp.
There are some important features that can indicate if this is actually a Falkenstein lamp or just a similar model that resembles this beautiful style. Below you will find out if you own a Falkenstein lamp.
About Falkenstein and his lamps
We can primarily thank their creator, Carl Falkenstein, for these wonderful lamps. He produced them from the 1940s to the 1960s.
This Philadelphian lamp-maker had a wonderful imagination paired with creative style, and this is what distinguishes his lamps from others even today. It’s pretty hard to top his uniqueness and originality in the lamp designs. Considering how long ago it was, we can only admire his work and originality even more.
In his work, Falkenstein primarily used brass, bronze, and clay, and it is very visible how skilled he was with these materials.
How to identify a Falkenstein lamp
If you are reading this article, you are probably curious about how to identify a Falkenstein lamp because you assume you have one, so let’s get straight to the point.
There are two key factors that indicate that you have an original Falkenstein lamp – signature and numbers.
Both signs should be located on the base of the lamp that’s on the bottom. The number mark needs to contain 3 or 4 digits or 4 digits with the added letter ”a” and one additional number next to it. If your lamp has both characteristics, you can be sure that you’re holding a precious Falkenstein lamp. Another thing that can help you to identify a Falkenstein lamp is the fact that the base of these lamps is always made of brass or bronze.
Each of the mentioned characteristics must be met, without exception. Otherwise, there is no guarantee as to which product it is.
If one of the features is missing, it is difficult to prove whether it is really a Falkenstein lamp, and thus it is difficult to assess its value. In the 1950s, Falkenstein was using paper foils in order to sign his works and that is why some of the lamps have lost his signature. Unfortunately, paper foils can peel off easily, especially over longer periods of time. In case you are missing the signature, but the quality and physical characteristics still lead you to believe that you’re in a possession of a Falkenstein lamp, seek advice from the antique shop workers.
If there is no way to confirm if it is a Falkenstein lamp, it does not necessarily mean that your lamp is not valuable. What’s more, you may actually own a more valuable antique lamp.
Professionals can certainly assess whose work it is and how valuable the item is. The best thing is that you can own an item without even knowing its true value, and you can always be pleasantly surprised.
Read more on what to do with old chandeliers.
Conclusion
If you were eager to find out how to identify a Falkenstein lamp you certainly came to the end of this article.
In conclusion, there are a few things to consider when identifying a lamp from the Falkenstein family:
- The base is always made of brass or bronze.
- There is a Falkenstein signature at the base of the lamp.
- There is a 3 or 4-digit number or 4-digit number with the letter ”a” and an extra number.
It would be worth noting that you must determine the age of the lamp, its condition, and when the lamp was made, but we presume that this has already been taken into account.
I believe I have a Carl Frankenstein lamp or a good copy, can’t find name or numbers, but it is just like the picture and gorgeous. What would the worth be?
Thanks for your comment, Judith!
We recommend that you take the lamp to a local antique shop or other professional for a monetary value estimate.
I have two matching Falkenstein lamps. One is a little taller than the other. Would you be able to identify the year each lamp was manufactured?
Hey Michael!
Pinpointing the exact year your Falkenstein lamps were made could be a bit tricky without clear markings. But here’s the scoop: differences in style, materials, and labels can give hints. You might want to chat with vintage lighting buffs or dig into resources to get a ballpark idea of when your lamps might have been crafted.
Would the name and num b er be on the bottom underneath the felt or on the side of the brass or bronze base?
Hey there Elizabeth!
The name and number are usually on the bottom underneath the felt of Falkenstein lamps. Sometimes, they can also be found on the side.