L & W S EP 3998 LAMP?

[Roddyjb]

Hi,
I have what appears to be an L & W S oil lamp converted to electric.
I believe the EP mark is for EPNS but can anyone tell me what the 3998 means or the year?
[url][URL=http://s220.photobucket.com/user/roddyjb/media/DSC08474_zps95045d24.jpg.html][/url][/url]
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd248/roddyjb/DSC08477_zps06e4910c.jpg
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd248/roddyjb/DSC08478_zpse68bd6d8.jpg

[dognose]

Hi,

Welcome to the Forum.

The maker is Lee & Wigfull of Sheffield.



The 3998 would just be an internal batch or pattern number. They were established in 1872 and converted into a limited liability company in 1900 and their marks reflected that event, so your item dates between 1872 and 1900.

Trev.

[Roddyjb]

Thanks, that confirms it was originally an oil lamp. Too bad it is just EP not solid silver. :)
Here is a pic with the shade.

[dognose]

Hi,

The fact that it is plated takes nothing away from it for me, it's a great piece.

To me, it looks original and does not look like a conversion. The side mounted screws at the top would have clamped on to a glass bowl that covered the light bulb. Replacements can be found with a bit of hunting.

Trev.

[Roddyjb]

The shade then not being original? Do you mean like a round white globe?
Rod

[Roddyjb]

Seems to me, with a globe it would be awkward turning it on & off. :)
Rod

[dognose]

Good point! But the lamp-holder may not be the original, it may have had a torpedo switch on the cable.

Does anyone have any Lee & Wigfull catalogues from around this period?

Trev.

[Roddyjb]

A catalogue picture would be great!
That would show the age, whether electric or oil and what type of globe I should be looking for!
Somewhere out there there must be a catalogue or ad?????