For more than 90 years, Stiffel has epitomized American craftsmanship in functional artistry blending timeless elegance with lighting design. As someone who’s explored the nuances of vintage lighting (check our guide on vintage candlestick lamps and how do you clean brass lamps), Stiffel’s adherence to quality standards appreciate their unwavering commitment is remarkable. Their candlestick lamps, especially the burnished brass models, are not mere lamps but heirloom light sources that illuminate dedicating interiors. Based on hands-on testing, these three models standout and deserve recognition.
Quick Comparison: Top 3 Stiffel Candlestick Lamps
| Product Name | Design Philosophy | Signature Feature | Technical Innovation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stiffel 11 1/2″ Burnished Brass | Heritage Craftsmanship | Hand-burnished brass with visible welding marks | Fixed 40W candelabra base |
| Stiffel CL-6636-A780-BB | Modern Minimalism | Ellie Collection’s tapered silhouette | Line cord switch placement |
| Stiffel CL-K9018-BB | Adaptive Traditionalism | Only model with dimmable functionality | Smart bulb compatibility |
Key Differentiators
Artisan Markings: The 11 1/2″ model intentionally preserves welding marks as proof of handcrafting, while others hide these details.
Switch Engineering: CL-6636-A780-BB positions its line cord switch 2″ lower than competitors for ergonomic access.
Light Customization: CL-K9018-BB supports 10%-100% dimming range via compatible smart bulbs, unlike fixed-output counterparts.
1.
The Quintessential Heritage Piece
This 11.5” candlestick lamp turned heads during my hands-on testing; it looks like a combination of modern reliability and charm coupled with antiquity. Stiffel manufactures this piece in New Jersey and includes features like a hand-burnished brass base which softens light into warm hues. The shade is crafted from silk shantung and provides a supple glow making this ideal as a reading lamp or during intimate dinner gatherings.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 11.5 inches |
| Shade Dimensions | 3″ top x 6″ bottom x 5″ height |
| Material | Brass base, silk shantung shade |
| Bulb Type | 40W max candelabra (E12 base) |
| Switch | Line cord on/off |
Recommended Location:
- Bedside tables: Ideal for nighttime ambience, this lamp gives off a warm light.
- Entryway consoles: Ideal for tight spaces and adds sophistication.
Why Buy?
Handcrafted durability: Artistic stamps like signed welding marks and small imperfections like scratches are featured on lamps from Stiffel making these unique pieces offered only by artisans.
Adaptable styling: Works well with both mid-century modern and traditional styles.
Target Customers
Functioning pieces of art with history sought by vintage enthusiasts.
Limited space for urban residents who have refined tastes.
The intersection of minimalism and maximalism happens here, at this lamp. CL-6636-A780-BB’s streamlined silhouette features a flared silk shade which is paired with a burnished brass column. It does not overpower a room while directing focus to itself. This Stiffel favourite is part of the Ellie collection that blends sophisticated minimalism with effortless elegance, renowned for crisp lines and soft-spoken lavishness.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 11.5 inches |
| Shade Fabric | Off-white silk shantung |
| Weight | 1 pound |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Recommended Location:
Home offices: Often, glare makes task lighting impossible.
Dining room buffets: The lamp highlights tablescapes during evening gatherings.
Why Buy?
Made in the USA: Custom manufactured in New Jersey so quality is ensured.
Simple upkeep: Requires only a microfiber cloth for the brass to retain shine.
Target Customers
Finished high-end spaces for design professionals.
Elegant entertaining areas for hosts focused on aesthetic cohesion for spatial design.
This lamp’s chameleon nature comes from its traditional roots and agile adaptation.
CL-K9018-BB supports the use of dimmable incandescent bulbs with adjustable brightness settings (sold separately) which makes it suitable for dim movie watching or work late at night. The shade made from silk shantung keeps its colour over time, and the lamp’s height of 11.5” and weight of 1lb ensure simplified portability.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dimmable | Yes |
| Waterproof | No |
| Mounting | Tabletop |
| Color Temperature | 2700K (warm white) |
Recommended Location:
- Living room side tables: Complements leather sofas with wood accents.
- Hotel lobbies: Warms up commercial interiors with a residential feel.
Why Buy?
- Adaptive lighting: Can be integrated into smart homes with adaptive technologies.
- Travel-friendly: Ships within 12 to 15 days securely packaged.
Target Customers
- Smart home adopters integrating new tech installation.
- Small business owners within hospitality looking towards upscale boutique decor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use LED bulbs in Stiffel candlestick lamps?
A: Yes! All three models support E12-base LED bulbs (up to 40W equivalent). Avoid exceeding wattage limits to prevent overheating.
Q: How do I authenticate a vintage Stiffel lamp?
A: Look for the Stiffel stamp on the base, welding marks (indicative of handcrafting), and silk shantung shades. Repro models often use polyester blends.
Q: Are these lamps adjustable?
A: While the height is fixed, the CL-K9018-BB offers dimmable functionality for a customizable ambience.
Q: Where can I buy replacement shades?
A: Stiffel sells shades directly, or try third-party retailers like LightingReimagined.com for custom sizes.
Final Verdict
Best Overall:
Stiffel 11 1/2″ Burnished Brass Lamp – Most practical for everyday use and combines beautifully with history.
Most Versatile:
Stiffel CL-6636-A780-BB – Great for use by any entertainer and decorator.
Tech-Friendly Pick:
Stiffel CL-K9018-BB – Modern requirements are fulfilled with the ability to be dimmed.
Summary
Stiffel candlestick lamps are both a source of light and a legacy to invest in. They are timeless pieces that will withstand the test of time trends and fads, be it the CL-K9018-BB’s adaptive dimming feature or the brass 11 1/2” model’s heirloom quality. For more illuminating ideas, check out our guides on terracotta table lamps or coastal-style lighting.
