£895.00
An exceptional and highly decorative Arts & Crafts wrought iron hanging lantern, originally made for gas illumination and now sympathetically converted for electricity in the Shackleton Fox workshop.
Of unusually generous proportions, the lantern measures 102 cm high before its suspension chain, giving it considerable architectural presence.
A striking Japanese Imari porcelain table lamp, richly decorated in the characteristic palette of deep cobalt blue, iron red and warm white, and mounted with substantial polished brass fittings.
Originally produced as a decorative porcelain vase, the piece has been sympathetically converted into a table lamp, retaining the character and decorative quality of the original ceramic while creating a highly usable piece of lighting for a contemporary interior.
The porcelain body has a gently shouldered form with a flared neck and is densely decorated with traditional Japanese floral and geometric motifs. Large reserves of stylised flowering plants are arranged amongst scrolling foliage, chrysanthemums and repeating textile-inspired patterns, creating the layered surface decoration for which Imari porcelain became so admired in European interiors.
Particularly attractive is the strong contrast between the vivid iron-red decoration and areas of freely painted cobalt blue. The slight variations in colour, line and application are characteristic of hand-decorated porcelain and give the piece considerably more character than later transfer-decorated examples.
The vase has been mounted on an ornate cast brass base with scrolling foliate decoration and shaped feet. Above, a substantial stepped brass cap follows the profile of the porcelain and is finished with a decorative beaded border. The polished brass complements the warm tones of the Imari decoration particularly well.
The lamp has passed through the Shackleton Fox workshop, where it has been fully assessed, professionally rewired and tested for modern use while respecting the original porcelain and fittings.
Its generous proportions make this an impressive statement table lamp, particularly suited to a console table, side table, library, drawing room or country-house interior.
Imari porcelain takes its name from the Japanese port of Imari, through which porcelain produced principally in the Arita region was historically exported.
Japanese Imari became particularly desirable in European interiors from the 17th century onwards. Its distinctive combination of cobalt blue, iron red and, frequently, gilded decoration had a considerable influence on European ceramic production and remained fashionable throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japanese decorative porcelain continued to be exported to Europe in significant quantities, where large vases and jars were particularly prized as decorative objects.
Converting antique and vintage porcelain vessels into lamps has a long tradition within British and European interiors. When carried out sympathetically, it allows decorative ceramics to take on a new practical purpose while retaining their original craftsmanship and character.
Japan
Circa 1890–1920
Late Meiji to early Taishō period.
This lamp has been fully renovated, rewired and tested in the Shackleton Fox workshop.
The electrical components have been renewed as required using quality fittings suitable for modern UK use, while the conversion and brass mounts have been retained and sympathetically prepared to complement the porcelain.
The lamp is supplied ready for use in the UK.
Please note: the lampshade shown in the photographs is not included with the lamp.
The shade pictured is our Medium Empire Lampshade – Ecru with Ink | Handmade in the UK, which has been selected specifically to complement the cobalt blue and iron-red decoration of the Imari porcelain.
The lampshade is available to purchase separately directly from Shackleton Fox.
Very good antique condition.
The porcelain displays minor age-related surface marks, small firing imperfections and variations within the hand-applied decoration, consistent with its age and method of manufacture.
There are areas of natural variation within the cobalt blue and iron-red decoration, together with minor historic surface wear. These form part of the character of the piece rather than detracting from its appearance.
The brass mounts have been sympathetically cleaned and polished while retaining appropriate character.
Please refer closely to the photographs, which form an important part of the condition report.
A particularly decorative example of Japanese Imari that works exceptionally well as a table lamp.
We were drawn to the strength of the porcelain decoration: the combination of saturated cobalt, iron red and large-scale floral ornament gives the lamp considerable presence without making it difficult to place.
The quality and scale of the brass mounts also elevate it beyond a simple vase conversion. Paired with the Ecru and Ink Empire shade shown, it has the layered, collected appearance that works particularly well alongside antique furniture, paintings and other traditional interiors.
Height: 43 cm / 16.9 inches
Diameter: 16 cm / 6.3 inches
Weight: 2.3 kg / 5.1 lbs
Every item offered by Shackleton Fox is carefully inspected, prepared, and where necessary conserved within our workshop prior to sale.
As heritage craftsmen and antique specialists, we believe in preserving the authenticity and integrity of each piece. Original finishes, patina, wear, and signs of age are retained wherever possible, as these elements contribute to both character and historical significance.
When restoration, rewiring, repairs, or conservation work is required, it is undertaken sympathetically using traditional techniques and materials appropriate to the period of the piece. Our philosophy is one of careful stewardship rather than unnecessary restoration, ensuring antiques remain both functional and historically respectful.
The result is a collection of pieces that have been thoughtfully prepared, allowing future owners to enjoy them with confidence while preserving their unique story and character.
