Martin Brothers Gentlemens’ Cigar Lamp

Description

Robert Wallace Martin Early Gentlemens’ Cigar Lamp

For sale is this incredibly rare Robert Wallace Martin Gentlemen’s cigar lamp. I have only ever seen this example from the Martin Brothers, so I am confident these are rarer than hen’s teeth.

Presenting as a central oil burner with wick, it has been fitted with finely worked white metal (a silver plate metal) of excellent quality. No wear to the metal to the base layer is evident and it polishes beautifully. The metal has been worked with undulations and bandings to add to its quality feel. Any dullness is a light tarnish that removes easily. Three identical “wands” rest in the protruding wand sections, and each wand and wand seat has matching numbers 1-3 for the wands to know their position.

The way the lamp worked was each of three gentlemen took a wand, and using papers from their vespa cases, would wedge the paper into their wand and be able to light their cigars from the comfort of their leather chair, whilst the lamp remained in the centre of the table. Lighting the cigar from a “clean” paper prevented the cigar’s flavour from being contaminated by the oil flame from the lamp.

Decorated with blue floral designs with a subtle green and blue banding between, the stems rise with a lovely natural green glaze to the silver tops. Set on three bulbous feet, with three layers of small shapes banding each foot, this delightful piece is quintessential late 1870s to early 1880s Martin Brothers! Whilst approximately 14.5cm tall and 9cm across, it is very solid and weighs 710g!

Beneath  the cigar lamp is the signature of Robert Wallace Martin (R.W. Martin), the figure “8” and then “Southall”. Estimated to date between the late 1870s and mid 1880s.

This piece is in wonderful orginal condition that is ready to brace any serious collectors collection. Even better if you and the friends enjoy an occasional cigar, as it is a novelty that can be safely and robustly used without fear of damage as it is so well made.

Background to the Martin Brothers

The Martin Brothers were a quartet of talented siblings who revolutionized ceramic art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for their unique and imaginative designs, they created pieces that are now highly collectible and sought after. Their works often feature whimsical, grotesque, and organic forms, blending functionality with artistic expression. Their  ceramics are rare, and their scarcity only adds to their collectability and value. Pieces by the Martin Brothers are prized for their originality, intricate details, and the skillful blending of natural and fantastical elements.

Many Martin Brothers pieces are on display at the V&A museum, including this one below that is virtually the same (also 1907) to this superb piece: