Early 20th Century Art Nouveau Girl Reading Table Lamp in Alabaster, Italy, 1920s

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Description

Sculpture/Table Lamp “Girl Reading”, Alabaster, Signed, Art Nouveau, Early 20th Century – Italy

Material: Alabaster
School: Probably Italian School, signature … Read more Sculpture/Table Lamp “Girl Reading”, Alabaster, Signed, Art Nouveau, Early 20th Century – Italy

Material: Alabaster
School: Probably Italian School, signature illegible
Period: Early 20th Century
Country of Origin: Italy
Good condition considering its age and use / Shows a restoration on the base of the lamp, as seen in the images
Overall Dimensions: 85 x 32 x 25 cm

A stunning and exquisite Art Nouveau sculpture and table lamp, finely carved in white alabaster, depicting a young woman reading while seated on a rock next to a lamppost. Possibly Italian School, signed (signature illegible), circa 1900.

The young woman wears a long dress, characteristic of the period, covered by a small scarf tied at the neck, which adds delicacy and a romantic touch. She is seated on a half-height wall, reading a book, next to a lamppost, which provides her with adequate lighting. Her beautifully sculpted curly hair and sweet, childlike features invite contemplation. The sculpture's lamppost itself becomes a real lamp, also carved from white alabaster. The dome appears to become translucent when the bulb inside is lit.

Unlike marble, alabaster is a compact, fine-grained stone; it is smooth, translucent, and lightweight, making it the ideal material for refined sculptures and lamps. The sculpture demonstrates great mastery in its creation, exquisite delicacy in the carving, and great aesthetic sensitivity. An exceptional piece, difficult to find on the art market.

Art Nouveau was an artistic movement that emerged at the end of the 19th century, seeking to integrate art into everyday life, breaking with historical styles. It is characterized by sinuous lines, forms inspired by nature such as flowers, stems, or insects, and an organic design that conveys fluidity and elegance. Its development was international, with variations such as German Jugendstil or Catalan Modernism, although its origins lie in Belgium.

In the decorative arts, Art Nouveau reached one of its richest expressions: furniture, lamps, textiles, ceramics, and stained glass were conceived as works of art. Craftspeople and artists such as Gallé, Tiffany, and Gaudí shaped functional objects that were also works of art, using innovative materials and artisanal techniques. This approach sought to beautify the domestic environment without sacrificing functionality.
European Plug (up to 250V).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less