26-120. An American Turned Wooden Betty Lamp Stand

Price: 795

Sold by Phillips and Durkin Antiques

26-120. An unusually appealing American turned wooden Betty lamp stand or “tidy,” probably Pennsylvania or New England, dating from the late 18th or early 19th century. Fashioned from what appears to be maple, the stand has a broad circular upper platform with molded projecting edge, supported by a boldly turned baluster standard above a wide, dished circular base. The wood displays attractive figure, particularly across the base, together with a warm, dry old surface and considerable evidence of age and use. Such stands elevated a Betty or other grease lamp for better distribution of light while providing a dedicated surface to catch drippings. Expected shrinkage cracks, staining and wear consistent with age; apparently without significant restoration. American, probably Pennsylvania or New England, ca. 1780–1820. (Betty Lamp Sold Separately)