1900s Victorian Pâte-Sur-Pâte Porcelain Table Lamp

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Description

Elegant late 19th-century Victorian pâte-sur-pâte porcelain table lamp featuring a classical figural scene rendered in delicate white relief against a … Read more Elegant late 19th-century Victorian pâte-sur-pâte porcelain table lamp featuring a classical figural scene rendered in delicate white relief against a soft celadon-green ground. The central plaque is framed by gilt detailing and set against a rich slate-blue porcelain body, complemented by ornate gilt-bronze-toned mounts, scrolling side handles, and a substantial circular base.

Pâte-sur-pâte, meaning “paste on paste,” is a highly refined ceramic decoration technique in which successive layers of liquid porcelain slip are carefully built up to create a translucent, sculptural relief. Particularly admired during the Victorian period, the technique was frequently used for classically inspired figures and allegorical subjects such as the scene decorating this lamp.

The porcelain base dates to approximately 1880 and displays the elaborate Neoclassical taste popular during the late Victorian period. It was subsequently converted or fitted as an electric table lamp during the 20th century, allowing the antique ceramic vessel to remain both decorative and functional.

A striking statement piece with wonderful presence, equally suited to a traditional, English country, Grandmillennial, or collected eclectic interior. Its slate-blue coloring, gilt accents, and finely modeled classical decoration make it especially handsome for a library, study, living room, or bedside table.

Dimensions:
Approximately 25 inches high from the base to the top of the shade fitting
Approximately 8 inches wide at the widest point

Date: Porcelain base, c. 1880; lamp fittings, 20th century See less