Edgar Brandt
French, 1880­1960
Cobra lamp
1925
Bronze and glass
ht.: 103 cm
George F. Harding Collection, 1984.73

This electric lamp takes the form of an upright cobra, whose tail is curled at the base. The snake’s upper body is wrapped around the sconce that holds the light. Poised to attack, the cobra’s fangs show. The sleek 1920s style lamp emphasizes natural forms and curving lines.

How would you feel about turning this light on and off?