What is a portable lamp?

As the name suggests, a portable lamp is a lamp that can be moved and plugged in wherever there is an electrical outlet. Floor and table lamps mainly fall under the portable lamp category. Shop a range of antique and vintage portable lamps on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a table lamp and an accent lamp?

The main difference between a table lamp and an accent lamp is its size. Generally, table lamps are larger pieces that people use for task lighting or to increase ambiance lighting in a room. Accent lamps tend to be smaller and provide supplemental light in spaces. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of lamps from some of the world's top sellers.

What is the difference between a table lamp and a buffet lamp?

The difference between a table lamp and a buffet lamp is the size. Although the two types of lamps come in similar heights, buffet lamps are usually narrower, so they take up less space on a buffet server filled with food. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of lamps from some of the world's top sellers.

Should a floor lamp match my table lamps?

It doesn't need to match exactly; consistent wood tone or metal finish reads more intentional than an identical pair.

Do table lamps have to match?

Your table lamps do not have to match but it definitely is important that they still go together. This can be done by making sure they are of similar style or have something in common such as color, shape, lamp shade, or metal type.

How does a table lamp work?

How a table lamp works begins with its cord, which gets plugged into an electrical outlet that provides a source of energy. Halogen and incandescent bulbs contain filaments. The filament in a bulb is a conductor of electricity. It’s attached to contacts made of metal that are connected to a power supply. This allows for electricity to flow through it. When the electrical current cycles through the filament, this component gets quite hot and emits light. Find a large collection of vintage table lamps on 1stDibs.

How do I identify a Laurel Lamp table lamp?

To identify a Laurel Lamp table lamp, first check the bottom of the base and the bulb socket for a label, tag or other marking. Some pieces display the Laurel brand name or a serial number, which you can cross-reference with information published on trusted online resources to make an identification. Since not all Laurel table lamps bear markings, you may need to search image galleries to see if you can find a model that matches your lamp. You can also consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer for an expert opinion. Find a variety of Laurel Lamp Company lamps on 1stDibs.

How big should a table lamp be?

How big a table lamp should be depends on your lighting needs and the size of the surface that you're placing the light fixture on. Most table lamps are 30 to 36 inches tall. On shorter tables, a taller lamp may be necessary to put illumination at eye level. Find a variety of table lamps on 1stDibs.

What are table lamps used for?

Table lamps are often used as a reading light or for task lighting. They can also simply serve as part of a room’s decor, perhaps adding light to an area that doesn’t get any illumination from overhead lights. Shop a collection of table lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is a buffet table lamp?

Buffet lamps, also known as console lamps or candlestick lamps, are light fixtures that range in height from 32 to 36 inches. The lamps feature a small shade and a narrow base silhouette, which resembles a slim column or candlestick. Shop for antique and vintage buffet lamps on 1stDibs.

How do I identify my table lamp?

To identify your table lamp, look it over in search of a maker's mark. Check the base, neck, light receptacle and shade for an engraving, embossing, stamp, label or other mark. With lamps that have felted bottoms, this may require lifting the fabric to reveal the material beneath. After finding a maker's mark, research it using trusted online resources to learn who the maker was and learn more about your fixture. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can help as needed. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary table lamps.

What's the difference between a table lamp and a desk lamp?

Table lamps are typically used for ambient or bedside light with a shade that diffuses light broadly, while desk lamps are more directional and task-focused.

Can ceramic table lamps be painted?

Yes, ceramic table lamps can be painted. In fact, many lamps come with hand-painted finishes. If you choose to paint a lamp yourself, you may need two or more coats of paint to get the results you desire. You'll find a collection of ceramic table lamps on 1stDibs.

How do I identify a Tiffany table lamp?

To identify a Tiffany table lamp, first take a close look at the base. Some pieces will bear a stamp or label that says, "Tiffany Studios," and newer lamps may also feature a serial number. By comparing the number and markings to information and images shared by trusted online resources, you can begin the identification process. If your lamp isn't marked, the base construction can provide more clues about the maker. Tiffany lamps usually feature bronze bases that feel weighty. Older models typically have a gray metal ring on their bottoms as well. In addition to examining the base, try turning the lamp on for a while and then touching the stained glass shade. Tiffany lamps tend to stay cool due to the thickness of the glass, so if yours feels hot, it may be the work of a different manufacturer. When in doubt, use the identification services of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a collection of Tiffany lamps on 1stDibs.

Which brand of table lamp is the best?

The best brand of table lamp is really a matter of personal preference. Choose a lamp that complements the style of your room and suits your lighting needs. On 1stDibs, find a range of table lamps from some of the world’s top sellers.

How can I tell if a table lamp is vintage?

There are a few ways to identify if your table lamp is vintage, but it does vary from brand to brand. If you can spot a maker’s mark or manufacturer’s label on your piece, it could tell you where and when it was crafted. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary table lamps from top sellers around the world.

How do I fix an old table lamp?

To fix an old table lamp, take it to an appliance or lighting repair shop that has experience working with the type of fixture that you have. Many problems can cause an old table lamp to stop working. A professional can determine the cause and use the correct tools to address it. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage table lamps.

How tall should a lamp be on a console table?

A lamp for a console table should be between 25 and 32 inches tall. The table lamp ’s shade shouldn’t exceed half the width of the console table.You’ll find that when it comes to arranging wall art , a decorator might suggest that the space on the wall above a console table is a great place for a large painting or a wall sculpture . In that case, you may wish to use a taller lamp for the table. If your table is smaller in scale or if you have a small mirror hanging on the wall above the console, you may wish to opt for a shorter lamp.Find vintage table lamps for sale on 1stDibs.

Which company is best for table lamps?

There is no single best company for table lamps. A well-crafted antique or vintage table lamp does more than provide light; the right fixture-and-table combination can add a focal point or creative element to any interior, and over the years, many manufacturers and designers have offered a range of visually appealing table lamps. Examples include Artemide, Gordon & Jane Martz, FLOS, Søholm Stentøj, Louis Poulsen and many others. Shop a large collection of table lamps on 1stDibs.

What size lamp should be on a sofa table?

To determine what size lamp should be on a sofa table, measure the table from the bottom of the legs to the tabletop. Then, choose a lamp that is equal to or up to 1.5 times taller than the table. Shop a range of table lamps from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

Portable Table Lamp

Verner Panton Chrome

Raw Aluminium

Established And Sons Lamp

Chrome Danish Table

Four Seasons Restaurant

Fluted Base

Materials

Brass

$285 / item

Verner Panton 'Panthella 160 Portable' Table Lamp in White for Louis Poulsen

By Verner Panton, Louis Poulsen

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Verner Panton 'Panthella 160 Portable' table lamp in white for Louis Poulsen. The Panthella collection was designed by Verner Panton in 1971 and remains one of his most iconic light...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Metal

Recent Sales

Lucite UL Portable Table Lamp

Unavailable

H 15.75 in W 4.73 in D 7.88 in

Lucite UL Portable Table Lamp

Located in Mexico City, MX

Lucite UL portable table lamp.

Category

Vintage 1950s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Lucite

Panthella 160 Portable Table Lamp

Unavailable

H 9.4 in W 6.3 in D 6.3 in

Panthella 160 Portable Table Lamp

By Louis Poulsen, Verner Panton

Located in New York, NY

The recognisable, soft organic shape of the table lamp is not only beautiful but also functional, with a hemispherical shade that directs light downward onto the trumpet shaped base,...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chinese Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

PH 2/1 Portable

Unavailable

H 14 in W 8 in D 8 in

PH 2/1 Portable

By Poul Henningsen

Located in New York, NY

This portable table lamp emits a glare-free, soft and comfortable light, that has a dim-to-warm function, giving the perfect illumination for many different activities.

Category

2010s Danish Table Lamps

Materials

Brass, Chrome

Pair of Mid-Century Portable Laurel Lamp

Unavailable

H 17 in W 12 in D 12 in

Pair of Mid-Century Portable Laurel Lamp

By Underwriters Laboratories, Laurel Lamp Company

Located in Pasadena, CA

The Mid-Century Portable Mushroom Laurel Lamp is a charming and functional piece that perfectly encapsulates the playful yet sophisticated design ethos of the 1960s. Inspired by the ...

Category

20th Century American Table Lamps

Materials

Chrome

Unavailable

H 7.49 in W 3.55 in D 3.55 in

‘Boudoir Cake’ Ceramic Vase in Wine by Studio Yellowdot

Located in Esentepe, 34

The collection offers a range of new items, including a cake tray, espresso set, candle holders, candles, vases, and portable table lamps; each ceramic piece is meticulously hand-fin...

Category

2010s Turkish Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

‘Boudoir Cake’ Ceramic Vase in Beige by Studio Yellowdot

Unavailable

H 7.88 in W 3.94 in D 3.94 in

‘Boudoir Cake’ Ceramic Vase in Beige by Studio Yellowdot

By Studio Yellowdot

Located in Esentepe, 34

The collection offers a range of new items, including a cake tray, espresso set, candle holders, candles, vases, and portable table lamps; each ceramic piece is meticulously hand-fin...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

‘Boudoir Cake’ Ceramic Vase in Mauve by Studio Yellowdot

Unavailable

Sold

H 10.24 in W 3.94 in D 3.94 in

Pivot ATD7 Portable Rusty Mint Table Lamp by &Tradition

By &Tradition

Located in Bayrut, Beirut Governorate

A portable lamp that explores the boundaries between form and function At the heart of Pivot’s design is the interplay between natural and manmade light. The lamp’s geometric shade i...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Steel, Iron

Flowerpot Vp9 Portable Glossy White Table Lamp from Verner Panton

Sold

H 11.62 in Dm 6.3 in

Flowerpot Vp9 Portable Glossy White Table Lamp from Verner Panton

By Verner Panton

Located in Bayrut, Beirut Governorate

Slightly smaller in size than the table lamp version, and deliberately lightweight, the portable VP9 comes equipped with a USB charging cable.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Steel

Portable Petal Table Light (Gold)

Sold

H 5.5 in Dm 4.5 in

Portable Petal Table Light (Gold)

Located in London, GB

Italy, modern, hand-made cluster of 36 gold-plated petals on silver-plated cylindrical base creating glamorous mood lighting; runs on rechargeable batteries.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Table Lamps

Portable Petal Table Light (silver)

Sold

H 5.5 in Dm 4.5 in

Portable Petal Table Light (silver)

Located in London, GB

Italy, modern, hand-made cluster of 36 silver-plated petals on cylindrical base creating glamorous mood lighting; runs on rechargeable batteries.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Table Lamps

Materials

Silver Plate

$3,468

H 21.66 in W 13.78 in D 13.78 in

Elegant Italian Table Lamp "Fungotto" in brushed bronze

By Matlight Milano

Located in Milano, IT

Born from the success of our Funghetto model, the Fungotto table lamp has larger and bolder dimensions, while maintaining the simplicity of its shapes. The semi-spherical alabaster l...

Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

People Also Browsed

H 28.75 in Dm 47.25 in

Cream Travertine Round Dining Table, in the style of 1970 Angelo Mangiarotti

By Angelo Mangiarotti

Located in Amsterdam, Holland

This minimalist table is crafted from solid tumbled travertine, featuring a circular top that rests effortlessly on a sculptural column leg—an elegant nod to the vintage designs of A...

Category

2010s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Travertine

Get Updated with New Arrivals

Save "Portable Table Lamp", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Portable Table Lamp For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the portable table lamp you’re looking for. Each portable table lamp for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using metal, organic material and resin. If you’re shopping for a portable table lamp, we have 4 options in-stock, while there are 10 modern editions to choose from as well. Your living room may not be complete without a portable table lamp — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. Each portable table lamp bearing Modern, Mid-Century Modern or Art Deco hallmarks is very popular. Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, Flos and André Fu each produced at least one beautiful portable table lamp that is worth considering.

How Much is a Portable Table Lamp?

The average selling price for a portable table lamp at 1stDibs is $384, while they’re typically $235 on the low end and $1,982 for the highest priced.

Finding the Right Table-lamps for You

Antique table lamps became a category of their own once electricity moved light off the wall and onto furniture. The form split quickly: task-driven designs like the Anglepoise on one side, decorative ceramic and glass on the other.

Styles to Know

Base material shapes the light as much as the shade does: ceramic and glass diffuse a softer glow, while brass and metal read more directional. Layer the look with a mid-century modern floor lamp for ambient light, or set a pair on a mid-century modern nightstand for a bedroom.

How to Choose the Right Vintage Table Lamp

Buying individually rather than as a pair allows more flexibility when mixing eras across a room. For those shopping by name rather than by shape, the history of the Anglepoise lamp is worth a read. Each piece comes from a vetted 1stDibs seller, with era, designer and condition detailed, and the 1stDibs Promise stands behind every purchase.

Questions About Portable Table Lamp

What is a portable lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
As the name suggests, a portable lamp is a lamp that can be moved and plugged in wherever there is an electrical outlet. Floor and table lamps mainly fall under the portable lamp category. Shop a range of antique and vintage portable lamps on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a table lamp and an accent lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
The main difference between a table lamp and an accent lamp is its size. Generally, table lamps are larger pieces that people use for task lighting or to increase ambiance lighting in a room. Accent lamps tend to be smaller and provide supplemental light in spaces. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of lamps from some of the world's top sellers.
What is the difference between a table lamp and a buffet lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
The difference between a table lamp and a buffet lamp is the size. Although the two types of lamps come in similar heights, buffet lamps are usually narrower, so they take up less space on a buffet server filled with food. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of lamps from some of the world's top sellers.
Should a floor lamp match my table lamps?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
It doesn't need to match exactly; consistent wood tone or metal finish reads more intentional than an identical pair.
Do table lamps have to match?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Your table lamps do not have to match but it definitely is important that they still go together. This can be done by making sure they are of similar style or have something in common such as color, shape, lamp shade, or metal type.
How does a table lamp work?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2024
How a table lamp works begins with its cord, which gets plugged into an electrical outlet that provides a source of energy. Halogen and incandescent bulbs contain filaments. The filament in a bulb is a conductor of electricity. It’s attached to contacts made of metal that are connected to a power supply. This allows for electricity to flow through it. When the electrical current cycles through the filament, this component gets quite hot and emits light. Find a large collection of vintage table lamps on 1stDibs.
How do I identify a Laurel Lamp table lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
To identify a Laurel Lamp table lamp, first check the bottom of the base and the bulb socket for a label, tag or other marking. Some pieces display the Laurel brand name or a serial number, which you can cross-reference with information published on trusted online resources to make an identification. Since not all Laurel table lamps bear markings, you may need to search image galleries to see if you can find a model that matches your lamp. You can also consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer for an expert opinion. Find a variety of Laurel Lamp Company lamps on 1stDibs.
How big should a table lamp be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
How big a table lamp should be depends on your lighting needs and the size of the surface that you're placing the light fixture on. Most table lamps are 30 to 36 inches tall. On shorter tables, a taller lamp may be necessary to put illumination at eye level. Find a variety of table lamps on 1stDibs.
What are table lamps used for?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Table lamps are often used as a reading light or for task lighting. They can also simply serve as part of a room’s decor, perhaps adding light to an area that doesn’t get any illumination from overhead lights. Shop a collection of table lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is a buffet table lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
Buffet lamps, also known as console lamps or candlestick lamps, are light fixtures that range in height from 32 to 36 inches. The lamps feature a small shade and a narrow base silhouette, which resembles a slim column or candlestick. Shop for antique and vintage buffet lamps on 1stDibs.
How do I identify my table lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
To identify your table lamp, look it over in search of a maker's mark. Check the base, neck, light receptacle and shade for an engraving, embossing, stamp, label or other mark. With lamps that have felted bottoms, this may require lifting the fabric to reveal the material beneath. After finding a maker's mark, research it using trusted online resources to learn who the maker was and learn more about your fixture. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can help as needed. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary table lamps.
What's the difference between a table lamp and a desk lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
Table lamps are typically used for ambient or bedside light with a shade that diffuses light broadly, while desk lamps are more directional and task-focused.
Can ceramic table lamps be painted?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, ceramic table lamps can be painted. In fact, many lamps come with hand-painted finishes. If you choose to paint a lamp yourself, you may need two or more coats of paint to get the results you desire. You'll find a collection of ceramic table lamps on 1stDibs.
How do I identify a Tiffany table lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
To identify a Tiffany table lamp, first take a close look at the base. Some pieces will bear a stamp or label that says, "Tiffany Studios," and newer lamps may also feature a serial number. By comparing the number and markings to information and images shared by trusted online resources, you can begin the identification process. If your lamp isn't marked, the base construction can provide more clues about the maker. Tiffany lamps usually feature bronze bases that feel weighty. Older models typically have a gray metal ring on their bottoms as well. In addition to examining the base, try turning the lamp on for a while and then touching the stained glass shade. Tiffany lamps tend to stay cool due to the thickness of the glass, so if yours feels hot, it may be the work of a different manufacturer. When in doubt, use the identification services of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a collection of Tiffany lamps on 1stDibs.
Which brand of table lamp is the best?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
The best brand of table lamp is really a matter of personal preference. Choose a lamp that complements the style of your room and suits your lighting needs. On 1stDibs, find a range of table lamps from some of the world’s top sellers.
How can I tell if a table lamp is vintage?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
There are a few ways to identify if your table lamp is vintage, but it does vary from brand to brand. If you can spot a maker’s mark or manufacturer’s label on your piece, it could tell you where and when it was crafted. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary table lamps from top sellers around the world.
How do I fix an old table lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To fix an old table lamp, take it to an appliance or lighting repair shop that has experience working with the type of fixture that you have. Many problems can cause an old table lamp to stop working. A professional can determine the cause and use the correct tools to address it. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage table lamps.
How tall should a lamp be on a console table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2024

A lamp for a console table should be between 25 and 32 inches tall. The table lamp’s shade shouldn’t exceed half the width of the console table.

You’ll find that when it comes to arranging wall art, a decorator might suggest that the space on the wall above a console table is a great place for a large painting or a wall sculpture. In that case, you may wish to use a taller lamp for the table. If your table is smaller in scale or if you have a small mirror hanging on the wall above the console, you may wish to opt for a shorter lamp.

Find vintage table lamps for sale on 1stDibs.
Which company is best for table lamps?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
There is no single best company for table lamps. A well-crafted antique or vintage table lamp does more than provide light; the right fixture-and-table combination can add a focal point or creative element to any interior, and over the years, many manufacturers and designers have offered a range of visually appealing table lamps. Examples include Artemide, Gordon & Jane Martz, FLOS, Søholm Stentøj, Louis Poulsen and many others. Shop a large collection of table lamps on 1stDibs.
What size lamp should be on a sofa table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
To determine what size lamp should be on a sofa table, measure the table from the bottom of the legs to the tabletop. Then, choose a lamp that is equal to or up to 1.5 times taller than the table. Shop a range of table lamps from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.