W. A. S. Benson. An Extremely Rare Arts & Crafts Iron Telescopic Standard or Floor Lamp
POA
By W. A. S. Benson, a telescopic standard lamp in iron, aligned to the Arts and Crafts movement (1880–1910), c.1900. A three-legged base rises on straight uprights that meet a low arched stretcher. The central column adjusts for height with a clamping collar. Above sits a copper font in a leaf-strapped gallery, fitted with a Hinks patent burner, a pairing documented on Benson standards of the period. The design treats structure as ornament; forged members, collars and rivets are left visible, and the tripod stance gives excellent stability beside a reading chair or as a room light.
Benson’s lighting is most often realised in copper and brass; iron standards are markedly less common in his output, although recorded in auction and in catalogues that show the breadth of his metalwork. The present lamp retains period burner hardware and later electrical conversion.
Extended height: 182.5 cm.
Width: 18.5 in (47 cm)
Depth: 18.5 in (47 cm)
1900-1909
