The bouillotte lamp is a quintessential piece of French decor and history.  Bouillotte lamps have been around since the 18th century, however they have recently been revived in today’s modern decor and have taken on a surprisingly fresh look.

Above is a Darryl Carter design with a matching pair of bouillotte lamps.

Bouillotte lamps were named after the French card game bouillotte that was a precursor to today’s high stakes game of poker.  Bouillotte was popular during the revolution (1789-1799) and then again in 1830.  The bouillotte lamp was created to bring candle light to the card table during festive games of bouillotte lasting until the wee hours of the morning.

Consisting of a dish-shaped base, the bouillotte lamp was designed to hold the “pot” of chips used during the card game.  From there, between two and four arms (resembling a candelabrum) extend from the base to end behind a metal shade.  Once only for candles, most bouillotte lamps today have been electrified for modern convenience.

The metal shade, usually painted a red, green, or black color with a hand-painted toile pattern, is adjusted by the use of a key directly above.  Having the ability to adjust the height of the shade was useful to keep the light of the candles from glaring in the eyes of bouillotte players as the candles would burn.

Here are some wonderful examples of bouillotte lamps, both old and new:

The  David Easton Soane Bouilliote Table Lamp is a highly sophisticated and elegant lamp.  It features a beautiful leather shade and metal body.  Click here for more information or to purchase.

Gilded bronze three light bouillotte with dolphins and painted tole shade from Marvin Alexander.

Margauz bouillotte in brass with red painted shade from Vaughan.

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