Argento

'Argento' is the Italian word for 'silver.' The Italians themselves had an extensive tradition in silversmithing. Today, collectors can find many fine examples of Italian 'argento' in both jewelry and tableware.The silver oil lamp or 'argento lucerno' is a highly coveted Italian antique. They were popular in the mid 18th century in Italy. The silver lamp had a reservoir, which was applied to a long rod. It was supported by a large wooden base. The Lucerno silver oil lamps was exclusive to Italy. While the majority of these lamps were produced in Rome and the Papal State, a few were made in Naples, Milan, Genoa, Venice and Florence. The Neo-Classical influence that was prevalent at the beginning of the 19th century inspired the production of what is known as figural oil lamps. Some of the silver reservoirs of these lamps are supported by sculptures of human figures dressed in Egyptian clothes. Other depicted either Greek or Roman Divinities or, in some cases, animals.Most of these lamps came with a shade. They were equipped with snuffers, tweezers and extinguishers that hung from chains, which were applied to the rod. In the 19th century, when more efficient forms of illumination became available, production of the Lucerna ceased. A limited supply of these lamps can still be found. These days, they are only used for decorative purposes.