I want to introduce you to my new love…my bouillotte lamp! I found it while thrifting with CC Catherine at Catherine de thé Cups last weekend and I think they could hear me squeal in the next county! And…it only cost $18...an absolute steal! Woo hoo! Now, maybe you are saying…what is a bouillotte lamp? Warning…warning…I feel the French teacher in me coming out! lol
Bouillotte (pronounced boo-yaht) is a card game similar to poker that was very popular in France during the late 1700's and into the 1800's. Players sat at a round table with a gallery edge that was lighted by a special lamp. You can see the table and lamp in this painting by Jean-François Bosio (1798).
The lamp had a special metal shade that could be lowered by turning a key as the candles burned down in order to shield the players’ eyes from the glare. There was usually a sort of dish at the base that was used to hold the game chips. The electrified versions have the same characteristics, although the adjustable shade is really no longer necessary.
Mine is a relatively simple one…not very ornate…which suits my style just fine. But let me show you some other examples of bouillotte lamps…
…such as this one from Pierre Deux. Isn’t it beautiful? Bouillotte lamps can have two to four arms and, more often than not, there is a metal tole shade which is narrower than ordinary lamp shades. The three and four armed lamps have a round shade…
…and the two armed variety like mine have an oblong shade. This Empire style lamp is from Fourcoux-Prince, a Parisian company specializing in bouillotte lamps. I love the Napoleonic N and those wonderful bees! Hey…if I were talented enough to paint mine, I could make it look almost like this one!
Now here is the real deal…a pair of antique Louis XVI style ormolu bouillotte lamps recently sold in auction at Christie’s in Paris for about $8,000! Aren’t they magnificent??
This one is a special favorite of mine because it belonged to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis! She loved this Louis XV style lamp so much that she took it from their home in Georgetown to the West Sitting Room in the White House and finally to her New York apartment. It went up for auction with the Geiger Collection of Historical Artifacts in 2007 with an estimated value of $35,000 to $50,000. I love the hand-painted Chinoiserie on the shade!
However, there are still bouillotte lamps in the White House. Here is a pair that is included in the permanent collection in the Blue Room. The room was decorated in French Empire style in the early 1800's by President James Monroe and has remained that way ever since.
And now, I have a bouillotte lamp! I love the way it lights up the corner of the room and adds a warm glow! I love that I have this classic French lamp in my house! And I love that somebody decided to give it away so that I could adopt it and take it home with me! I think I will name it Jean-François! lolThanks so much for stopping by! Please head on over to Mary’s at Little Red House for Mosaic Monday to see one of her beautiful mosaics and to find a list of this week’s participants. You will be treated to some wonderful photos from some very talented people!
Next, be sure to visit Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday where you can get a peek at her gorgeous home and see what sorts of changes she is making, as well as find out who else is playing along! I can’t wait to see what everyone has going on! See you next time! A la prochaine!
Great post and so interesting! I love learning new things. I have a lamp that is similar to these and had now idea that it had a history! (Even if it is just an imitation). Your lamp looks so great and your got a great deal on it. Congrats!
ReplyDeleteOg Debbie , that is your greatest find ever. I love those bouillote lamps. I have been admiring them for ages but never got one as they are very expensive here. I have some beautiful lamps but I still miss this one. I am afraid we don;t have that sort of goodwill stores here. Have a nice week.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous lamp, amazing buy!!!! And a gorgeous, fun, informative post. Best part? I learned how to pronounce bouillote! I've always loved the lamps, never dared SPEAK their names.
ReplyDeleteJean-Francois? Hmm... he looks more Gerard to me. :-)
AND I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE YOU FOUND THAT OUT THRIFTING. I only ever see leftover 80s horrors in lamps in thrift shops.
Cass
What a wonderful find. It looks perfect on your hutch. I didn't know this history of the lamp style. I do love lamps and I'm glad you found such a perfect one.
ReplyDeleteOh, Debbie! I'm so excited for you! What a beautiful lamp and I so enjoyed the history about it! You struck gold, friend! Now your dining room is beautiful and I love your hutch and your little lamp looks perfect there!
ReplyDeleteBe a sweetie,
Shelia :)
Thank you for such a gorgeous and informative post! I love that lamp and have seen them before but did not know what they were. Now I do, have to love learning new things...It also looks lovely on your hutch. Great find my friend!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely adds a warm glow to the room, it's a beautiful lamp! I can see why you're thrilled!
ReplyDeletegreat lamps...you got a good deal
ReplyDeleteOh Debbie, what a wonderful find. I haven't been browsing for a while yet...must get going and see what I can find. Thank you for the chat on the history of the lamp, very interesting...a wonderful post.
ReplyDeleteTeresa xx
Deb, You know you and I are kindred spirits when it comes to these lamps. I love them and with a black shade I am in heaven. You always find the best things,thrifing and I love the way you apply them in your home, that lamp looks as if it has been in your home for years, Perfection!!Love your hutch, the patina in the wood is gorgeous. Beautiful Home Miss Debbie Hugs Kathysue
ReplyDeleteOh Debbie, I love your lamp. I have always thought these were so pretty and had no idea about the history or what they were called. I love that you always teach us so much. Your hutch is gorgeous with all of your beautiful blue. I just love it all.The lamp is just perfect there. Such a super find. Hugs, Marty
ReplyDeleteDebbie, that little lamp is the perfect addition to your hutch! I would have been squealing with joy, too! I can't believe some of the things people donate to the thrift stores, but sure am glad when I find treasures. Thanks for the mini history lesson, now I now the story of the bouillotte.
ReplyDeleteThat lamp is gorgeous! What a fantastic find for a great price. I love those lamps as well...a little envious over here. :)
ReplyDeleteOk, the headboard you had. But this find is incredible - so yes I still bow to the thrifting queen! I love this lamp, and I love the history lesson. I never knew how to pronounce this, I assumed the t was silent. This is the perfect addition to your home, it looks beautiful on the hutch. Kathy
ReplyDeleteDebbie, this is a wonderful find! I'm squealing for you!!! You always find the neatest stuff at the best prices, and I adore this style of lamp. Very, very chic and handsome! Looks perfect in your French nest. Way to go, girlfriend!
ReplyDeleteSending you warm hugs...
XO,
Sheila :-)
Your lamp is truly a gem! Amazing you found it for only $18.00, WOW!
ReplyDeleteSmiles,
Carol
What a great buy! And on top of that it looks just great. I would have squealed too!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful - I like the oblong shape of the shade more than the round!
ReplyDeleteWhat a buy!!! (Thanks for the history lesson also)
Agree with Foley ... a great history lesson. And amazing photos. What a find!
ReplyDeleteI am so happy for you, Debbie! The lamp is beautiful!! Thank you also for the little history lesson...I had never hear of this type of lamp before and it really is quite handsome!! Good for you on a great price, too!!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Jane
Beautiful lamp and I enjoyed the history lesson! I like where you have put it on your hutch though I'm sure you will be moving it all around your home thinking "Oh, it would look good here too"! LOL!
ReplyDeleteDD
Good Morning Debbie...gir I love your Boo-Yaht lamp and the history on it...as you know I love all history on antiques so I really did enjoy this post today...Hey how's that baby baking girl...only a month to go right??? Many Blessings to you today Debbie...Hugs and smiles Gl♥ria
ReplyDeleteThank you for the lamp lesson...I learned something new! Don't you just love it when you find something that just makes your day! It looks wonderful in the spot where you placed it.
ReplyDeleteSue
Salut Debbie, Quelle bonne leçon au sujet de la lampe - elle est magnifique! Tu as vraiment volé la lampe! Elle est parfaite dans la salle à manger. Tu vas jouer au poker? à lundi, Linda
ReplyDeleteI can see why you're in love...that is gorgeous! And $18 is unbelievable! yea!
ReplyDeleteDebbie, I always learn something from your posts! I've seen these lamps many times, but have not known the history behind them. Love your sweet Jean-François. How lucky it is to now be a part of your beautiful home! ~ Sarah
ReplyDeleteDebbie, that little lamp was meant to be yours. It's the perfect size and height for the spot. The fact that it is frenchy makes it yours for sure!
ReplyDeleteThat is a beautiful lamp! And I love the lamp history lesson too!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your new lamp and thanks for the history lesson. I hope I can remember how to pronounce it when I finally see one and want to impress my husband with my knowledge!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great post. Very interesting. Great info.
ReplyDelete- The Tablescaper
Debbie! What a great lamp and just perfect for your hutch. You have such good luck in thrifting! I've seen these lamps over the years, but never knew what they were called. Thanks for the history behind the Bouillotte. Keep thrifting.! Ü
ReplyDeleteBeautiful find! Thanks for the lesson, I didn't know what that type of lamp was.
ReplyDelete~Michelle
I love your new lamp! It is perfect for you and a great addition to your surroundings. I am familiar with the bouillotte but did not know the history as you have presented it. I love the way you instruct and enjoy the "teacher" in you! A "find" is only as good as the one who finds it and loves it...sharing it on your post brightens things for all of us!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous find....it is a beautiful lamp, I can't understand how someone didn't want it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the history lesson on your lamp too!
I do not have a clue about the lamp, but I have learned a lot on your post.
ReplyDeleteWow! Weren't you lucky! It looks lovely on your hutch.
ReplyDeleteHi Babs! How fun it is to run into you at the new GW! That lamp came for Emma's Attic! Can you believe someone gave it away? Thanks for dropping by!...hugs...Debbie
ReplyDeleteI am so happy to see your name on my comments, Norwegian! I have been wondering how you are! Did you know I'm originally from your neck of the woods? Thanks for the sweet comments and for dropping by!...hugs...Debbie
ReplyDeleteI just love it when the French teacher comes out in you; I always learn something!! The lamp is beautiful and now I'll know a little more about them when I shop. Thanks, for the info, friend. And your talent in finding such lovelies is just amazing!
ReplyDeleteSharon
Well this was fun...I learned something new tonight. How fun that you have one of your own now....
ReplyDeleteWow Debbie, that is BEAUTIFUL!!! And what a great deal! Thanks so much for sharing at MM. :)
ReplyDeleteOh, now that is a find. Beautiful lamp. I would have latched onto that one. I'm glad you turn into a French teacher as I never knew anything about that style of lamp. You know, stencils can be bought if you really want the look of the other lampshade. And I think you NEED those bees, Deb-Bee. :)
ReplyDeleteYour lamp is very nice and I appreciate all the information you shared about it - very interesting.
ReplyDeleteGreat find! Looks good on your hutch.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful find and price! It's beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI have one just like it and although I love it, just have never found the right place. Now I know where it needs to go!
ReplyDeleteThat's one lucky find and a great deal, Debbie. So pretty on your hutch. Now those 2 green Louis XVI will be perfect for our home, lol. I wonder who can give those to me as a gift....LOL! Thanks for shairng the history on the bouillottes.(Can you pluralize them?)...Christine
ReplyDeleteI love the lamp. I never would have known anything like that existed if not for your French Lesson :-)
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you have one of your very own, it is beautiful.
Debbie, thank you for this lesson. I had always heard that word, but had no idea what it was. Yours is wonderful and what a deal! I have no doubt that you will be stenciling that shade in no time, and it will look just like the one you showed. You found some beautiful examples to show us, but yours does look like it was made for you and for that hutch. laurie
ReplyDeleteWow, that was some find!!! Very interesting post. Your lamp is beautiful!
ReplyDeleteInteresting post and the lamp is fantastic...yes, I thought I heard a squeal in the distance!
ReplyDeleteThe new member at your home his very handsome and it brings you a cozy light in that spot. Welcome to your Jean Francoise!!!!
ReplyDeleteMuchos cariños, Debbie,
Maria Cecilia
Love your new bouillotte lamp! I have one that has tole painting, and I love it. Estate sale find. Thanks for the info about it. -Delores
ReplyDeleteI love that lamp! I didn't know those kind of lamps had a name...I learned something! It sure was a great find. Love the other pics you posted too. I was glad to see roosters and frenchy things at market too. I think just about everything is in right now...it's whatever you like. I will say that I saw tons of contempory...well I'm not changing just because it's in. I say we stick with what makes us happy! Take care, Kristen
ReplyDeleteYes, it was good to meet Donna! She is really sweet!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your great find, it is pretty. I learned something too, thanks for the info.
ReplyDeleteOooh...this is a great find. And thanks for all the information/history!!! I'll keep on the look out for one, too!
ReplyDeleteHugs, Lana Austin
What a wonderful little lamp! Thanks for the lesson, as my french speaking daughter is not here at the moment to help me out. I love that the shade goes up and down to accommodate the burning candles!
ReplyDeleteDebbie... I love the lamp. I've seen the style before but didn't know the history of them... Thanks so much for the French Lesson.. I always love learning somethng new!
ReplyDeletehave a beautiful week! Dixie
Gorgeous lamps and beautiful house!
ReplyDeleteGreat post Debbie.
Have a nice week.
I see you too have a plate issue! I can't seem to stop buying them!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great find! Thank you for the history lesson as I have seen these lamps before but never knew they had a specific name or the history affiliated with them (you know what they say-once a teacher, always a teacher:). anyway, the pictures are beautiful as always.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Kim
Debbie your new lamp is gorgeous! ~WOW! What a great price too. :)_
ReplyDeleteSimply gorgeous! And only $18?! Your squeal was justified. :-)
ReplyDeletei have a large lamp like this but believe me, i didn't get it for 18.00. great deal! it looks wonderful on your sideboard and i love the dishes. i also have a blue and white collection!
ReplyDeleteI've always admired that style of lamp. Yours looks wonderful!
ReplyDeleteThat Buckhead Goodwill was just awful! I couldn't believe it. It's where Steinmart used to be. Anyway, very poor selection and just junky stuff. I've got to make a trip to your Goodwill!
Manuela
Hi Debbie,
ReplyDeleteI hope you do share your wreath, I would love to see it! Mine needs a little tweaking, I think I'm going to add some more burlap to it so it's a little fuller. Hope you are having a great morning!
~Michelle
That lamp is really nice. Thanks for sharing the history. I love learning something new.
ReplyDeleteYou are too funny, DebraJ..Deb-Bee! lol
ReplyDeleteThanks for dropping by, Puna! Aren't plates fun?
ReplyDeleteOur treasures do light up our life, don't they? (wink)
ReplyDeleteGoodness, delighted to hear you have the lamp style you have yearned for and Ms Debbie,(or shall I call you renoncule ) I must tell you that going through the imagery and your posts about the historical design aspects...is always a thrill!
Jackie Kennedy's lamp is truly a special lamp. I can see why she took it with her to all her homes.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the history lesson too. I love history!
xpo,
Carole
Hi Debbie, I can sure learn a lot hanging out with you! I do love your lamp and what a very lucky find while thrifting. I would have been elated too. I think yours is perfect. Love the black shade. It was fun seeing the others as well and interesting there is one in the White House. Thanks for the lesson!!
ReplyDeleteDonna
What a difference a lamp can make in a room!
ReplyDeletebeautiful and educational = perfect.
ReplyDeleteHi Debbie!!!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI can't believe it!!! I was looking at that lamp on craigslist today!!!!!! How funny! They wanted $200. for it......I think I'll wait! xo CHEERS! Michele
Beautiful lamp, what a great find. I love dark shades. The history was so interesting!
ReplyDeleteIt's been a few hours since you left your comment but I can hear my music and yours. It could be there was a problem for a while.
I forgot to mention those are not all my dogs, in fact, none of them are. One belongs to my sister, one to my brother and the other two are my aunt's. They were all at my mom's house and they sent me photos. My poor dogs are out of luck, coats big enough for them would cost an arm and a leg!
Hugs,
Dawn
WOW DEBBIE,
ReplyDeleteI am so impressed by that gorgeous lamp and what a buy!!! Your getting like Marty with her great GW deals! I loved that you shared the history too, Jackie Kennedy's lamp was my fave! Congrats on the soon to be grandbaby, I am so excited for you! And the deer, yes hubby counted 14. We live in the deer capital of Wisconsin, more deer than people! Hugs, Cindy
Debbie, I love your new lamp...loved reading the history of it, and love the way it graces your hutch, which is beautifully decorated!
ReplyDeleteThey are all stunningly beautiful lamps (loved Jackie O's the best!)but even more stunning to me is your gorgeous hutch filled with such beautiful china pieces! The lamp's reflecton is perfect on them!
ReplyDeleteHey Debbie!
ReplyDeleteWell, your lamp is gorgeous...It's just perfect there on your hutch with all of your pretty plates. I enjoyed reading the history of the Bouillotte Lamp also. Thanks for sharing that. That Jackie O lamp is amazing...I love the light aqua colors. No wonder she never left it behind when she'd move.
Thanks so much for visiting my blog, it's so neat that you've been to the "Little Grand Canyon" in Georgia before...I'm so glad that post could bring back memories for you.
Hope you have a great night!
Big Hugs,
Queenie
P.S. Hug those precious kitties of your for me too Okay?!
Coucou Debbie!
ReplyDeleteThis lamp is awesome!what a find!
Thanks for your last visit and comment about the fauteuil Bergère:i'd love to have one too,maybe au printemps i'll find one at the brocante.
Always a pleasure to hear from you!
Lisa
I am always learning..your boo Tay :) lamp, and hoar frost from another blog.....never heard of either!!
ReplyDeleteIt is very pretty, and I am happy you are happy!
I took Latin and Spanish..so it's tacos and togas from me! :)
What a wonderful lamp "tour". There were some stunning examples along the way. I own a replica lamp that pales in comparison!
ReplyDeleteSandy
congratulations.it is lovely.i can only imagine your happiness.thank you for the lesson.i had no clue.enjoy my friend.enjoy....anniepoo
ReplyDeleteC'est ma première visite dans votre petit monde et j'aime bien!
ReplyDeleteFrance
Hi, I just found a pair of Bouillotte lamps on Chairish.com for a steal! I'm not buying them so thought you might be interested. They're $300.00 for the pair. beautiful.
ReplyDeletehttp://shop.chairish.com/products/gilt-lamps-with-green-shades-a-pair
Hello, Debbie:
ReplyDeleteI've been collecting bouillotte lamps for several years. I've put them all over the house! I just bought a pair for my office but they come without shades. I think I got a good deal as well, $50 for the pair, although I haven't seen them in person yet. My problem is my lamps also have two candles, but the only shades I'm finding are round. Have you got a source for where I can purchase oval shades for them?
Thanks!
Deborah
Hi Deborah! I checked several sources and could only find them on Amazon. This one looked like it might be a good bet, but I don't know the size of yur lamps. It's pricey, though.
Deletehttps://www.amazon.com/Upgradelights-Shallow-Vintage-Bouillotte-Lampshade/dp/B01M1HZLB1/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1475812298&sr=1-2&keywords=bouillotte+lamp+shade+oval
I also suspect that if you call some of the companies that seem to specialize in them such as Hoyle, they probably have them. And yes, I'd say 2 for $50 is a great deal! Hugs...Debbie