Italian Neoclassical Carved Alabaster & Marble Table Lamp, c. 1930s

This Italian Neoclassical table lamp dates from the 1920s to 1930s and is carved from natural veined alabaster resting on a contrasting marble plinth base. Manufactured in Italy, the piece represents the interwar period of European decorative arts, during which regional stone-carving workshops adapted grand classical architectural elements into functional lighting for the domestic market

The lamp is constructed from several distinct, hand-turned sections of stone assembled on a central metal threaded rod. The base consists of a thick, circular plinth carved from a dark, variegated grey-and-white marble, which provides a weighted anchor for the fixture. Rising from this platform is a fluted alabaster pedestal stem with a flared baluster profile, punctuated by a carved acanthus or scalloped collar.

The focal point of the lower assembly is a broad, deeply undercut frieze ring intricately hand-carved with a continuous relief motif of grape clusters and trailing vine leaves. Nestled inside this carved ring is a multi-tiered upper tower assembly featuring a cylindrical body topped by a fluted, domed cap that mirrors the lines of classical European architecture. The translucent properties of the chosen alabaster allow light to gently permeate the stone core when illuminated, highlighting the natural grey and charcoal mineral veining throughout the matrix.
Technical Specifications
Country of Origin: Italy
Period: c. 1920s – 1930s (Interwar Period)
Style: Italian Neoclassical / Grand Tour Revival
Materials: Carved Translucent Alabaster, Variegated Grey Marble Plinth Base, Internal Brass/Steel Rod
Ornamental Elements: Hand-Carved Grape and Vine Leaf Frieze, Fluted Baluster Pedestal, Scalloped Stem Collar
Dimensions: H. 24" Body H. 13
Diameter: Shade 12" x 9,5" H. Body H. 13" 7" Diam.
Condition Report
Overall Status: Very good vintage condition. The lamp retains its original structural integrity, standing uniform and plumb on its marble base.
Stone Condition: The alabaster components are structurally sound, free of major fractures, deep chips, or professional restorations. Faint, natural hairline fissures inherent to the mineral structure are visible under close inspection but do not compromise the integrity of the stone. The hand-carved relief work on the grape frieze remains crisp with no major losses to the leaf tips.
Marble Base: The dark grey marble plinth is structurally sound with only negligible surface scuffing along the lower rim edge consistent with age and shelf wear.
Electrical: The fixture has been tested and is in full operational working order.