Rare and Important Early Dirk Van Erp "Cobra" Piano Lamp in remarkable condition, seldom appearing on the market. The known examples can be counted on one's fingers. Signed with Dirk Van Erp's closed box windmill mark, 1911 or shortly thereafter. Original Patina and mica, very minor mica flake lifting as shown, mentioned for accuracy. Weighted base allows shade to hang below the level of the base, optimizing illumination of the piano keys. As can be seen in the images, the lamp is both beautiful and functional seated on a cabinet also. The shade is naturally vented due to it's open cap design allowing heat to escape, protecting the mica. It's presence in person is beyond what can be shown in mere images. While one could easily assume these lamps are quite rare due to the existence of many more homes with lamp tables than pianos, the challenging construction required by this design must have been quite time consuming and expensive at the time, limiting the examples that are found today and contributing to their rarity. Purchased from a home where three generations used the lamp on their piano, including the original owner who played in a San Francisco orchestra. A copy of the original owner seated in the orchestra is included. Measures: 21" long x 10" diameter shade x 8" high overall.