Pair of Vintage Chinoiserie Monkey Lotus Candleholders, Painted Resin

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A whimsical and highly decorative pair of vintage Chinoiserie monkey candleholders, modeled as seated monkeys presenting lotus-form candle cups on … Read more A whimsical and highly decorative pair of vintage Chinoiserie monkey candleholders, modeled as seated monkeys presenting lotus-form candle cups on outstretched arms. Designed as complementary figures facing one another, the pair creates a wonderfully theatrical composition when displayed together.

Each monkey is modeled seated upon a richly sculpted naturalistic base embellished with colorful fruit, foliage and ornamental details. Their elongated arms extend outward to support individual candle cups resting on green leaf-form saucers, giving the figures an animated sense of movement.

The hand-painted palette is particularly appealing. The monkeys are rendered primarily in softly mottled jade and celadon green, contrasted by cream-colored garments decorated with delicate pink and yellow floral motifs. Accents of rose pink, burgundy, orange and brighter green appear throughout the lotus candle cups, fruit and botanical decoration.

Although constructed from substantial molded resin, the candleholders were deliberately finished to evoke the colorful appearance of traditional glazed ceramic and majolica decorative objects. The modeling, jewel-like palette and whimsical animal subject recall the exuberant European fascination with Asian-inspired decorative arts and the long tradition of Chinoiserie monkey figures.

The design also has an affinity with the celebrated Portuguese Palissy-style ceramic tradition associated with José A. Cunha of Caldas da Rainha, particularly in its playful naturalistic modeling and colorful sculptural treatment. Because these examples are resin and are not marked as Cunha, however, they should be described as Cunha-inspired or in the style of, rather than attributed to the maker.

Designed as a companion pair, the two figures are subtly different rather than identical. Their opposing orientation allows them to flank a mantel, console, pair of books, mirror or other decorative centerpiece. They would also make unusual candleholders for a dining table or entertaining setting.

Each measures approximately 9.25 inches high × 9.5 inches wide × 4.5 inches deep, giving the pair substantial decorative presence without overwhelming a tabletop.

Their playful character makes them particularly effective within Chinoiserie, Hollywood Regency, Palm Beach Regency, Grandmillennial, maximalist and eclectic interiors. Against a more restrained contemporary setting, they can function almost as small pieces of Pop-inflected decorative sculpture.

Presented as a set of two.

In very nice vintage condition with minor age-related surface wear consistent with use and display. Please refer to the photographs for the most accurate assessment of condition.

Dimensions, each: 9.25 in. H × 9.5 in. W × 4.5 in. D
Quantity: Pair / set of two
Material: Molded resin
Decoration: Hand-painted polychrome finish
Style: Chinoiserie / Hollywood Regency / Majolica-inspired
Period: Vintage See less