A bronze desk lamp that once belonged to Florence Nightingale has sold for ?�17,000 ($26,724).
The lot was among the top selling items at Hansons Auctioneers on June 26.
 Florence Nightingale is one of the most famous women of the Victorian era |
The auction house's Charles Hanson explained in the run-up to the Staffordshire Newsletter. "Our client's ancestor's sister had two daughters who as young ladies went into service at Florence's home, Lea Hurst in the 1850s.
"Whilst at Lea Hurst, Florence used her time to write with the use of this brass lamp.
"When the Nightingale family took the decision to leave Lea Hurst and the sisters were informed they would no longer be required, on their departure, they were given this lamp by Florence and told 'to take best care of it.'"
Florence Nightingale is best known as "The Lady with the Lamp" for her dedication to wounded soldiers during the Crimean War. She would often perform her rounds at night.
She went on to single handily reform the nursing system throughout the British Empire.
Hanson said after the sale: "It was truly a delight to handle such a unique item, which has played a part in the history of one of Derbyshire's truly inspirational characters."
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