Late 19th Century Chinese Canton Rose Medallion Lamps - a Pair

Details

Description

A commanding pair of late-19th-century Chinese Canton famille rose porcelain vases, dating to the late Qing dynasty, circa 1880–1900, and … Read more A commanding pair of late-19th-century Chinese Canton famille rose porcelain vases, dating to the late Qing dynasty, circa 1880–1900, and later mounted as substantial two-light table lamps.
Each baluster-form vase features a broad shoulder and flared neck, richly hand-painted with figural reserves depicting courtly interiors populated by dignitaries, attendants, scholars, and elegantly dressed figures. Additional panels portray colorful exotic birds among peonies, flowering branches, and garden landscapes.
The reserves are surrounded by an exuberant ground of butterflies, birds, blossoms, auspicious objects, and scrolling foliage in the vibrant rose, turquoise, cobalt, coral, green, and gilt palette associated with Canton export porcelain. Gilt geometric borders organize the intricate composition, while applied gilt chilong dragons and sculptural handles animate the shoulders and neck.
The porcelain vases are raised on circular dark-patinated metal bases and fitted with tall brass standards, each supporting two pull-chain light sockets. Impressive in scale and richly decorated from every angle, the pair would make a dramatic statement on a console, commode, or pair of side tables.
Dimensions: Height: 34.5 in. x Diameter: 8.5in. See less