Vintage and modern Bouillotte lamps

The bouillotte lamp is a type of table lamp that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. The name "bouillotte" comes from the French word for "boiler," and refers to the fact that the lamp was originally designed to hold a hot water container, or "bouillotte," underneath the shade to provide warmth during cold winter evenings.

The bouillotte lamp was invented by French nobleman Charles-François de la Croix, Marquis de la Touche, in the late 18th century. He created the lamp to provide light and heat to his card playing guests at the same time. The lamp was designed to hold a container of hot coals, usually from a fireplace, which would radiate heat to the surrounding area.

The original design of the bouillotte lamp featured a simple, functional style, with a round shade, a central column, and a simple base. Over time, however, the design of the more... lamp evolved to become more ornate, with decorative elements such as intricate metalwork, tassels, and fringe added to the shade and base.

Bouillotte style lamps have been popular since the 18th century because of their timeless design. They were manufactured in France, England, and America usually of brass or gilt bronze, and were used in the home, libraries, studies and drawing rooms. less...