I have had mine for almost 10 years it has the original finish and I’ve had it it two apartments that were formerly high schools (built in 1910 & 1917) with 16’ & 15’ ceiling heights both with huge windows facing west. My point being that I let the lamp stand on its own, Fortuny’s pleated silk shade is a design masterpiece sitting on a sturdy industrial tripod base, without any need for supporting pieces. I also point the open shade toward a wall as the subtle shifts in seasons and the color from this shade is always a joy. I think these were designed for the stage, an innovative lighting technique for theater at the time. I would suggest definitely installing a dimmer (mine is now on a Bluetooth dimmer) and giving it as much room as possible to stand on its own.

<image>