Banker's lamp

An example of a banker's lamp

The banker's lamp is a style of electric desk or table lamp often characterized by a brass stand, green glass lamp shade, and pull-chain switch. Such a lamp was first patented in the United States under the Emeralite brand name. Banker's lamps have become iconic, often used in libraries and offices in films and TV shows. For example, they prominently appear in The Godfather (1972) ^[1] and The West Wing (1999–2006), contributing to their association with scholarly or professional environments. Other examples can feature different colours of glass, and alternative switch types.

History

The first patent for a banker's lamp was filed on 11 May 1909 by Harrison D. McFaddin, and were produced and sold under the brand name Emeralite ("emerald" and "light"). Emeralite lamp shades were produced by the J. Schreiber & Neffen factory located in the city of Rapotín, Moravia. ^[2] Later competitors were sold as "Greenalite", "Verdelite", and "Amronlite". ^[3]

British Brass Banker's Lamp. Patented in 1929.

A British version of the banker's lamp was filed for a patent in 1929, which, instead of a glass shade, has a solid brass shade or reflector. In addition, the positions of both the pedestal and the shade are adjustable. ^[4] Examples are commonly seen on the secondhand market. Besides the traditional pull-chain switch, some banker's lamps feature toggle switches or rotary dimmer controls, allowing for varied levels of light adjustment. This variety of switch designs adds to the lamp's versatility and aesthetic appeal.

Popularity in Modern Times

The banker's lamp continues to be popular in modern times, often used in home offices, libraries, and vintage-inspired interior decor. Its classic design has made it a staple in environments seeking to evoke a sense of history or professionalism. Additionally, the lamp is frequently used on film sets to represent traditional office settings or evoke nostalgia for past eras.

See also

• Green eyeshade
• Tiffany lamp

References

1. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068646/
2. Bleier, Bruce. "The Lamps of H. G. McFaddin & Co". Archived from the original on 31 May 2014. Retrieved 15 July 2014.
3. Elliot, Lynn. "Revival lighting of the 20s and 30s". Old-House Journal. 24 (2): 57.
4. Cash, Frederick Thomas. "Improvements in or relating to electric table lamps and the like". Espacenet. Archived from the original on 22 April 2023. Retrieved 4 September 2021.