The Colonial Premier Company, though not a household name like some larger lighting manufacturers, produced a range of stylish and well-crafted floor lamps that are now highly sought after by collectors and vintage enthusiasts. These lamps, often characterized by their elegant designs and quality materials, represent a fascinating slice of mid-20th-century American lighting design. This guide delves into the world of Colonial Premier floor lamps, exploring their history, identifying key features, and offering advice for collectors.
What Makes Colonial Premier Floor Lamps Unique?
Colonial Premier floor lamps stand out for several reasons. Their designs often incorporated classic elements, like the use of traditional materials such as wood and brass, yet they possessed a modern sensibility, reflecting the aesthetic trends of their era. Many feature sophisticated details, including meticulously crafted bases, elegant shades, and high-quality finishes. The company's commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the durability and overall quality of these lamps. While specific model names aren't readily available in the public domain, distinguishing features often include the style of the base (often featuring ornate details or interesting shapes), the material of the base and shade, and the overall height and proportions of the lamp.
How Can I Identify a Colonial Premier Floor Lamp?
Unfortunately, definitive markings identifying a lamp as explicitly "Colonial Premier" are scarce. Authenticating these lamps often relies on a combination of visual cues and circumstantial evidence. Look for hallmarks of quality construction, consistent with the era. The materials used, the attention to detail in the craftsmanship, and the overall style can all point towards a Colonial Premier origin. Comparing your lamp to images found online through diligent searching (using various search terms like "mid-century floor lamp," "brass floor lamp," etc., along with variations of "Colonial Premier") can be helpful. Joining online collector forums focused on vintage lighting can also provide valuable insight and expertise.
What are some common styles of Colonial Premier floor lamps?
While specific model names are difficult to confirm, Colonial Premier lamps likely encompassed a range of popular styles from the mid-20th century. Expect to encounter designs reminiscent of traditional, transitional, and even slightly modern aesthetics, reflecting the evolving tastes of the period. Common materials include wood (often mahogany or walnut), brass, and possibly even ceramic or glass in some models. The shades would likely have been fabric, possibly silk or linen, though this is harder to verify without the lamp in hand.
Where can I find information on the history of the Colonial Premier Company?
Information on the Colonial Premier Company itself is limited in readily accessible online sources. Further research into historical business records and archival materials may be necessary to uncover more detailed information about the company's history, production dates, and the full range of its lighting products. This often requires engaging with historical societies, libraries with specialized collections, and possibly contacting antique lighting experts or appraisers.
How can I determine the value of a Colonial Premier floor lamp?
The value of a Colonial Premier floor lamp, like any vintage item, depends on several factors, including its condition, rarity, style, and the current market demand. A lamp in excellent, original condition with all its parts intact will generally command a higher price than a damaged or incomplete one. The materials used also influence value; lamps with rarer or more desirable materials like solid brass or high-quality wood will typically be more valuable. Online auction sites and collector forums can provide insights into recent sale prices of similar lamps, but professional appraisal is recommended for a precise valuation.
How do I care for a Colonial Premier floor lamp?
Proper care is essential to preserve the value and beauty of your Colonial Premier floor lamp. Regular dusting with a soft cloth is recommended. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. If the lamp has a fabric shade, gently clean it with a specialized upholstery cleaner or consider professional cleaning. For brass or metal components, a gentle brass polish can be used sparingly. Always ensure the lamp is properly wired and grounded before use, ideally by a qualified electrician to prevent any electrical hazards.
This guide provides a starting point for understanding and appreciating Colonial Premier Company floor lamps. Remember that further research and expert consultation are always encouraged when dealing with vintage and antique items. The journey of discovery is part of the allure of collecting these elegant pieces of lighting history.
