When attempting to identify their TV lamps markings, collectors often encounter more questions than answers, but many manufacturers did sporadically mark their work. They used several methods to place the maker’s name on pottery, including die-impressing, which permanently presses the marking into the piece while it is in the “greenware” state.
Collectors of TV lamps often face challenges in identifying their pieces due to limited markings. However, some manufacturers did make efforts to mark their work, albeit inconsistently. This process ensured that the marking remained intact throughout the lamp’s lifespan.
But the use of paper or foil labels gained favor in the ’50s, and these were subject to deterioration, or removal, over time. The addition of markings on pottery, and TV lamps in particular, had several purposes. They can denote the company name and/or place of manufacture, indicate the year (of design, copyright or manufacture), credit the designer, display in-house model designations, or carry the Underwriters Laboratories certification. Below are some examples of various markings and their significance.
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| Here is two examples of foil labels, both indicating the manufacturers name and location of manufacture. Lane & Co. and Haeger Potteries were among the many companies that began using these in the ’50s. | |
Innovative Branding Techniques
One of the oldest forms of “branding” ceramic products, this is an ink stamp. Although Jacquelin used them in a decidedly untraditional way. Typically applied to an unglazed portion of a ceramic item, Jacquelin stamped them to the smooth. Glazed surface, a technique that resulted in poor adhesion. These markings are usually partially, or completely, worn away. It indicates the maker, and includes the name and number of the particular design.
Despite the challenges posed by the unconventional technique, these ink stamp markings hold significant value as they indicate the maker and include the name. And number of the specific design. Collectors and enthusiasts find intrigue in deciphering the faded imprints and pie
On another Kron TV lamp we see the designers name proudly displayed.
This Fuhry & Sons TV lamp has a large paper label, this one being in unusually good condition. They used this space to declare the company name as well as the recommended bulb wattage.
One of the most frequently found paper labels is the one declaring the lamp “UL listed”. Sometimes potteries would place their company name on the same sticker, as did Maddux of California on this example.
While you’re not apt to come across one of these, a lamp autographed by a designer or employee is certainly a prized marking.
