Sterling Silver Figural Torch Lamp — Winged Putto

A fine and rare George V sterling silver figural table lamp, modelled as a winged putto (amorino) standing en contrapposto upon a gadrooned ovoid socle, one arm raised to support a ribbed torch nozzle crowned by a frosted pressed-glass flame-form shade. The circular base is chased with a band of acanthus foliage and framed by a beaded border; the stem features spiral gadrooning. The lamp rests on an ebonised wood plinth and is wired for electricity.

Fully hallmarked to the base rim with the maker's mark W&W in trefoil for Wakely & Wheeler, the lion passant for sterling silver (.925), and the London date letter U for 1915/16.

Wakely & Wheeler were among London's most accomplished silversmithing firms, their lineage traceable to John Lias's workshop of 1791. Under James Wakely and Frank Clarke Wheeler the firm registered its distinctive interlaced monogram at Goldsmiths' Hall in April 1909, producing work of consistently high quality through the first half of the twentieth century. Figural silver lamps of this scale and ambition — cast in solid sterling rather than electroplate — are exceptionally uncommon survivals.

Height: 60 cm. Base diameter: 19 cm.

Condition: Very good; minor surface wear consistent with age.