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Exceptional late-Victorian solid brass marine gimbal wall lamp (c.1898–1910). Beautifully engineered to combat the rolling of the sea, this fixture features its original heavy counterweight bell, allowing the lamp to swing fluidly or sit stable. Because of the original clever dual-purpose design, it can be mounted directly to a wall as a sconce or placed flat on a desk or bedside table as a heavily weighted lamp.
The standout feature of this piece is its rare, hand-stamped naval inventory mark cold-struck directly into the brass base: “NAVY'S GEN Δ ALBATROSS”. Given the design, style, and era of the brass casting, this piece aligns perfectly with the late-Victorian expansion of the British Fleet. It most likely originated as standard-issue lighting ("NAVY'S GEN" signifying Navy General Equipment) aboard HMS Albatross (1898).
Launched by John I. Thornycroft & Company in July 1898, HMS Albatross was a high speed torpedo boat destroyer. Stable, heavy-set gimbaled fixtures like this were essential on early destroyers to maintain illumination despite the extreme vibration, high speeds, and intense tossing common to these narrow-hulled warships. The custom delta symbol (Δ) stamped alongside the name indicates the specific naval yard or dockyard inventory clearance mark used during her outfitting in this case the Chatham Royal Dockyard. 
With its raw mechanical charm and warm brass tones, this lamp is perfect to add character to a business or home interior. 

Condition

Professionally rewired with premium, sympathetic fabric-covered braided cable and a convenient inline switch. Fully PAT tested for peace of mind—perfect for immediate domestic or commercial installation.

Shows signs of wear and tear as it is old and has been used, but only adds to its character. Great decorative item which would look fantastic in any home or business interior.

Please look at photos closely as they form part of the item description.

Dimensions 

14 cm diameter base, 29 cm height

About Us

We are a family business and love sourcing unusual pieces which bring a burst of individual style to the most modern of interiors, creating interiors with soul!

If you have any questions do get in touch via the website, retrovation.co.uk or find us on social media, just search Retrovation.

All pieces are packed using recycled cardboard and bubble wrap. 

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We have lots of new pieces arriving on a regular basis, do follow us on social media or sign up for our regular newsletter via our website. 

Thanks Dawn & Stephen

 

Antique Ships Gimbal Lamp Brass c.1890 Naval Stamped HMS Albatross Rewired PAT

£345.00Price
Quantity

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