Fairy Lamps: Evening's Glow of Yesteryear

by Amelia E. MacSwiggan, Marjorie M. Smith (Introduction)

Here is a comprehensive and authoritative volume of the candleburning night lights of the Victorian era in which the author explores their manufacture since Samuel Clarke patented his renowned and coveted Fairy Lamps by combining decoration with utility. Included are discussions on night light teapots (vielleuses theieres) and food warmers.

170 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1962

Reviews

[Carolyn Page · Rating 3 out of 5]

Apparently the only book of its kind for an incredibly specific niche of collectibles. I've been seeing a few fairy lamps for sale in local antique shops and my heart got given away. I enjoyed reading about the history, popularity, and types of fairy lamps. Moderately dry and written with the touch of an amateur, but brief. Since it was written in the 1960s, I expect the listing of prices for various models at the back is out of date. ;)

[Jake GR · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some helpful historical information about Victorian fairy lamps (candle-burning lamps) for interested collectors. It is one of only a few books on these antiques, so is more significant thanks to this dearth of information than its contents. The book is very much a product of the 1960s, much of the information is amateurish, speculative, and uncited.