19th Century English Aesthetic Movement Ceramic 'House' Lamp Base with Orientalist Decoration
Description
Charming ceramic lamp base, fashioned in the form of a stylised house, is a superb example of the English Aesthetic Movement's fascination with Orientalist design. Dating to the late 19th century, circa 1880, this piece exhibits all the hallmarks of a period when British decorative arts were captivated by the exotic motifs of Japan and China.
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Delivery Leadtime
International delivery is estimated at 5-7 working days.
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19th Century English Aesthetic Movement Ceramic 'House' Lamp Base with Orientalist Decoration
Charming ceramic lamp base, fashioned in the form of a stylised house, is a superb example of the English Aesthetic Movement's fascination with Orientalist design. Dating to the late 19th century, circa 1880, this piece exhibits all the hallmarks of a period when British decorative arts were captivated by the exotic motifs of Japan and China.
The lamp base is crafted from a fine earthenware with a delicate, finely crazed glaze that adds a wonderful antique patina. The intricate hand-painted decoration in cobalt blue depicts a series of exotic birds, possibly mythical or stylised pheasants, amidst a dense and lush landscape of ferns, bamboo, and stylised flora. A captivating feature is the circular sun-like motif with radiating lines, a strong nod to Japanese influence, particularly the rising sun of the Meiji period. Below this central scene, a decorative border of interlocking scrolls and stylised medallions completes the composition.
The form itself is highly unusual and imaginative, with the house-like structure featuring a distinctive pitched roof shape. The ceramic is mounted on a custom-made, solid brass base, which provides stability and an elegant transition to the modern brass lamp fittings. The original period ceramic shows a beautiful craquelure commensurate with its age, a testament to its authenticity and history.
This piece stands as a testament to the influence of Japonisme and Chinoiserie on Victorian design. The Aesthetic Movement, which flourished in the 1870s and 1880s, championed the idea of "art for art's sake" and sought inspiration from non-European cultures. This lamp base embodies this philosophy perfectly, blending an architectural form with painterly, Oriental-inspired motifs. Its whimsical and refined design would make it a focal point in any interior, from a sophisticated drawing-room to a curated study, offering both functionality and a rich piece of design history.
Condition Report
Excellent antique condition. The piece is a stable and authentic example of late 19th-century ceramic art, showing a beautiful and genuine patina commensurate with its age.
The ceramic 'house' form is in superb order. There are no chips, cracks, hairlines, or signs of restoration. The original glaze is finely and uniformly crazed across the entire surface, a desirable characteristic that attests to its age and authenticity. The hand-painted cobalt blue decoration remains vibrant and intact, with no signs of flaking or rubbing.
This lamp has undergone a complete, professional, and full rewire to meet modern British standards. All electrical components, including the internal wiring, bulb holder, and plug, are new and compliant with UK safety regulations. The lamp has successfully passed a Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) inspection, ensuring it is safe for immediate use in the UK.
Measurement
Height:      35 cm   /   13.8 inches
Width:      15 cm   /   5.9 inches
Depth:      8 cm   /   3.1 inches
Weight:     2 k.g.  /   4.4 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
We complete a full assessment, re-wire and PAT inspection on all lighting. The full assessment can include general upkeep and updating – Fitting new lamp holders, deep cleaning, minor repairs and replacement of fragile metal pins are all part of our service. Rewiring includes a standard rewire to conform with UK electrical regulations to an adaptation or conversion
