Pair of Neoclassical Style Gilt and Tole Painted Table Lamps

20th century, metal with applied ebonized and gilt finish, single socket forms cast as fluted columnar forms over a stepped plinth, with acanthus and laurel decoration, unmarked. Together with pair of matching pleated shades.

34 1/2 x 20 1/2 x 20 1/2 in.

From the Historic Collection of Limestone University, Gaffney, South Carolina
Limestone College, now Limestone University, was founded in 1845 in Gaffney, South Carolina, by English-born Baptist minister Dr. Thomas Curtis and his son William. Originally established as the Limestone Springs Female High School, it was among the first women’s colleges in the nation and the very first in the state. The institution found its early roots in a former resort hotel near healing springs, later struggling due to the Civil War and Reconstruction. It revived in 1881 as the Cooper‑Limestone Institute, thanks to benefaction from industrialist Peter Cooper, and adopted the name Limestone College.

Shades with mildew spotting and some tears to lining; both operating well at time of review.