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A. You have what is known as a radio lamp — one that sat on top of tall cabinet radios of the 1930s. The maker of the base is hard to identify but the shade is most likely a Czech maker. This figural Art Deco cockatoo is a popular subject that matches the amber glass “skyscraper” form shade and stepped waterfall base. The “pot metal” base is an inexpensive alloy that has the desirable perfectly intact patina imitating bronze. Shades are often replaced and this original one is not common. You have a hard to find example. Your bird lamp speaks “top shelf” at $275 today.

Q. I have recently acquired the 1916 marriage certificate of my grandparents. My grandma had it rolled up in tissue paper until she went into a nursing home in 1985. It had not been seen by anyone else until then. I had it professionally framed for my parents. It is beautiful and in perfect condition measuring 43 x 30.5 cm (17 x 12 inches). I would be very grateful for your opinion on it. Thank you.

Kay, Mount Forest, Ont.

A. I must congratulate you on preserving a unique piece of history. Paper conservation is something needing more attention than many other forms of antiques and art since paper tends to be more “ephemeral.” Not only a historical record itself, the graphics with bells, cascading flowers and a biblical scene with shepherd and camels speak to the times and so much more. The framing expense is integral to its preservation and enjoyment much more than dollar value. If it were to be sold on its own this beautiful artwork would probably command about $100 today.

Q. This pitcher set came from my paternal grandmother who taught my parents about antiques when they were first married. Family lore indicated that this was English cranberry glass with the special celery handle. It is 23 cm high to the handle top. More than value I would like some definitive information on it. Thank you very much.

Christine, Paris, Ont.

A. Your pitcher set is commonly called the “swirl and thumbprint” pattern and dates to the late 1800s. Glass-makers moved around and took their talents with them and the reeded or celery handle was no exception. It was done on both sides of the Atlantic. It is applied separately and they are impressive. Phoenix Glass Company in the United States has been suggested as a maker but there is more strength to it being made overseas. It is not rare and was very popular in colour and design during the 1890s. The glass is “blown-molded” and will have a large polished pontil mark on the base. Cranberry is not as valuable as it was 25 years ago but your handsome three-piece set — sometimes called a speaker’s set — is still worth $150 today.

John Sewell is an antiques and fine art appraiser. To submit an item to his column, go to the contact John page at . Please measure your piece, say when and how you got it, what you paid and list any identifying marks. A high-resolution jpeg photo must also be included. (Only email submissions accepted.) *Appraisal values are estimates only.*