Pittsburgh “Iris" Chamber Lamp in Red (Cardinal) Satin Glass - Very Rare

Circa 1898–1903 — “Iris”
The Pittsburgh Lamp, Brass & Glass Company, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Description

This authentic antique chamber lamp was produced by The Pittsburgh Lamp, Brass & Glass Company during the circa 1898–1903 period and represents one of the earliest and rarest patterned glass designs within the Pittsburgh line. Known as Iris, this pattern predates many of the firm’s more elaborate later offerings and reflects a refined, restrained aesthetic characteristic of Pittsburgh’s early production years.

The Iris pattern is distinguished by its smooth, sculptural form and understated surface treatment, favoring proportion and elegance over heavy ornamentation. The simplicity of the design gives the lamp a timeless presence, allowing the form and color to speak with quiet authority. This restrained approach stands in deliberate contrast to later, more decorative Pittsburgh patterns and is one of the defining reasons Iris examples are so highly regarded by knowledgeable collectors.

This example is executed in red (cardinal) satin glass, a classic and historically significant colorway. The soft satin finish enhances the lamp’s graceful contours while lending a rich, velvety appearance that complements the pattern’s simplicity. Red satin Iris lamps are seldom encountered and are especially desirable when preserved with correct proportions and original components.

The lamp retains period-appropriate Pittsburgh hardware, consistent with early production standards. The correct brass elements and balanced construction reinforce the lamp’s authenticity and elevate it as a serious collector example rather than a purely decorative piece.

This lamp falls within the category commonly referred to by collectors as a “Gone With the Wind” lamp, a modern descriptive term used to identify chamber lamps featuring both an upper and lower glass font. While not a period designation, the term is widely recognized in today’s antiques marketplace.

Approximate Dimensions

• Overall Height: Approximately 24 inches (+/–)
• Font Diameter: Approximately 9½ inches (+/–)

Condition

This lamp is offered in excellent to near-mint antique condition.

Because condition assessment is subjective and collector expectations vary, we strongly encourage requesting a detailed video presentation prior to purchase. A comprehensive video can be provided upon request to showcase the lamp in its entirety and to address any condition-related details directly. The video serves as the primary point of reference for evaluating condition.

Rarity Scale

This lamp is classified as: Very Rare

Additional Details & Video Availability

A detailed video of this lamp is available upon request and may be provided prior to purchase. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to view additional angles, lighting conditions, or specific areas of interest related to form, proportion, or condition.

Professional Packaging & Shipping

This lamp will be carefully packed using professional, collector-grade materials appropriate for fragile antique glass. Each component is individually protected, secured, and boxed to ensure safe transit.

Fully insured shipping is included at no additional cost and will be sent with signature confirmation upon delivery. Exceptional care is taken to ensure the lamp arrives safely and exactly as described.

Antique Authenticity & Period Characteristics

As an authentic antique produced in the late 19th to early 20th century, this lamp may exhibit minor characteristics inherent to period glassmaking, including small air bubbles, light manufacturing marks, or minor fitter chips consistent with original production methods and age. These characteristics are typical of period glass and do not detract from the lamp’s overall integrity, authenticity, or desirability.

Returns

Due to the age, rarity, and one-of-a-kind nature of authentic antique lamps, all sales are considered final. We encourage prospective buyers to request additional photographs or video prior to purchase to ensure complete confidence.

Risk of Loss & Insurance Claims

Ownership and risk of loss transfer to the buyer upon shipment. All items are professionally packaged and shipped fully insured for the total purchase value. In the unlikely event of transit damage, the buyer agrees to cooperate fully in the insurance claim process.