A striking survivor from the early era of decorative electric lighting, this antique Austrian figural light bulb is molded in the form of an old-fashioned six-sided lantern. Dating to approximately the 1920s, the oversized bulb combines translucent amber-yellow panels with dark brown-black architectural framing, creating the appearance of a miniature illuminated street or coach lantern.

At approximately 5 ⅜ inches long, this is substantially larger than the small C6-style figural Christmas bulbs more commonly encountered. The molded glass includes six individual lantern panels, a pitched hexagonal roof and finial, and a deeply ribbed lower collar above the large screw base.

The base is clearly marked “AUSTRIA” along with its original 110V electrical rating and additional period specification markings. Austrian manufacturers were important early producers of decorative and figural incandescent lamps, including bulbs created in a remarkable assortment of representational forms. Figural bulbs of Austrian manufacture are also documented in specialist antique-lighting collections.

Its unusual architectural form, large scale and richly aged amber-and-black coloring make this an especially appealing example for collectors of antique figural light bulbs, early electric lighting and vintage Christmas decorations.

Highlights:

• Antique Austrian figural decorative light bulb, circa 1920s
• Molded in the form of an old-fashioned six-sided lantern
• Six translucent amber-yellow glass panels
• Dark brown-black painted framework outlines each lantern panel
• Hexagonal sloping roof with raised molded finial
• Deeply molded and fluted lower collar
• Large standard-size screw base rather than a small C6 Christmas-light base
• Base marked AUSTRIA and 110V, with additional period specification markings
• Measures approximately 5⅜" long and weighs 2.6 ounces
• Wonderful early electric-lighting collectible with crossover appeal for antique Christmas and figural-bulb collections

Good antique condition with age-related paint and surface wear. A noticeable area of yellow color loss is present on one lantern panel, with a smaller area of loss on two other panels and scattered minor wear to the dark-painted details. The molded architectural detail remains strong and well defined. The metal screw base shows expected age-related patina and discoloration. No chips or cracks observed. Please review the detailed photographs for condition and markings. 

Note: This vintage 110V filament lamp bulb being offered as a collectible display piece. It is has not been tested and is not recommended for electrical use.