Few movie props have achieved the legendary status of A Christmas story Leg lamp. It’s a delightfully absurd and unforgettable prop, a shining symbol of Christmas ridiculousness and family dysfunction.
But where did this fun piece of pop culture come from? Before becoming a cinematic gag, Leg Lamp was born from the mind of humorist Jean Shepherd.
In his short story, “My Man and the Lewd Special Prize That Heralded the Birth of Pop Art,” Shepherd fictionalized his father’s obsession with the bizarre lamp. This story was perfect fodder for what he would become A Christmas story.
The lamp wasn’t just a prop, it was a character in the film, capturing the tacky optimism of post-war America and the comic chaos of the Parker family.
Shepherd’s inspiration came from an unlikely source… A Nehi Soda ad featuring a shapely leg. His story depicted the lamp as a gaudy, shining marvel:
“From ankle to thigh the translucent flesh radiated a vibrant, sensual, luminous orange-yellow-pinkish nimbus of pagan fire… All it needed were tom-toms and maybe a gong or two.”
These exaggerated images set the tone for the on-screen lamp character, which was part art, part absurdity, and obviously unforgettable.
Three leg lamps were made for the film, but none survived production. But today there are replicas available that you can purchase. They are the only way to own this kitschy piece of history.
The Leg Lamp is a piece of nostalgic Americana. You can find replicas online or at A Christmas story Home Gift Shop in Cleveland, Ohio. They’re perfect for anyone who wants to add a little sparkle (and a lot of conversation) to their holiday decor.
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by Joey Paur
Source: Geek Tyrant
Lloyd Grunewald is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. He is a talented writer who focuses on bringing the latest entertainment-related news to his readers. With a deep understanding of the entertainment industry and a passion for writing, Lloyd delivers engaging articles that keep his readers informed and entertained.
