Antique Lamp Anatomy

antique lamp anatomy infographic

Guide to Antique Lamp Anatomy

There is so much you can learn about the history of design just by looking at the lamp on your nearest table. We tend to take lamps and other furnishings for granted even though developments in art, culture, and science directly impact the way our homes look now. Contemporary light fixtures make sense in the context of all the designs that preceded them. By understanding the anatomy of an antique lamp, you can catch a glimpse into all the most significant design movements and scientific advancements that brought about the battle for brighter and better lighting. Antique lamps have their own nomenclature but understanding the anatomy of a lamp can dramatically affect your ability to repair, resell, or restore antique lamps. This helpful infographic details some of the most common components of antique lamps by different styles, so you can learn everything you need to know about replacement lamp parts.

Stand or Post Lamp

  • Chimney
  • Shade
  • Shade Holder
  • Burner
  • Collar
  • Font
  • Connector
  • Column/Stem
  • Base

"Gone with the Wind" Lamp

  • Lamp Chimney
  • Top Ring
  • Ball Shade
  • Ball Shade Holder
  • Burner
  • Tank/Crown/Font Cap
  • Font
  • Connector
  • Base

Early Electric-Style Lamp

  • Finial
  • Heat Cap
  • Aperture Ring
  • Cluster Socket
  • Base

Banquet or Three-Tiered Lamp

  • Lamp Chimney
  • Ball Shade
  • Burner
  • Oil Cap
  • Font Cap
  • Font
  • Connector
  • Column
  • Connector
  • Base

Rayo Lamp

  • Lamp Chimney
  • Student Shade
  • Burner
  • Collar
  • Oil Cap
  • Font

Oil Lamp

  • Lamp Chimney
  • Burner
  • Collar
  • Oil Lamp Body

Antique Lamp Supply offers a wide selection of replacement lamp parts, but we also supply a wide range of resource articles on subjects ranging from lamp identification to intermediate restoration. If you have any questions about this infographic or antique lamp anatomy in general, contact us today for additional information or further assistance. We are always eager to help our customers find the lamp parts they need to restore old heirlooms to excellent condition.