Pair of Vintage Cream Chinoiserie Relief Lamps with Velvet-Trimmed Silk Shades

At a Glance

• Matching pair of large vintage Chinoiserie lamps
• Warm cream ceramic bodies with deeply molded scenic panels
• Figures, pagodas, architectural follies, foliage, and scrolling ornament
• Subtly antiqued glaze accentuating the raised relief
• Coordinating shades that appear to be silk
• Plush velvet shade trim
• Original working wiring
• Shades, harps, and finials included
• Excellent condition with no chips, cracks, or crazing observed
• 35.5" overall height
• Presented as part of The Florida Edit
• Oversized shipping paid by purchaser

Description

Colorful Chinoiserie gets all the attention, but sometimes the quietest pieces are the most sophisticated.

This substantial pair of vintage ceramic lamps is finished in a warm cream glaze, with subtle tonal shading that settles beautifully into the deeply molded decoration. Each side presents a different Chinoiserie scene populated with figures, pagodas, architectural follies, foliage, tassels, and scrolling ornament.

The monochromatic glaze allows the remarkable relief work to provide all the pattern and movement. Depending on the light, the lamps shift from quiet cream silhouettes to richly dimensional decorative objects.

Their sculptural, footed forms are complemented by coordinating shades that appear to be silk and are finished with plush velvet trim. The shades, harps, and finials are all included, creating a complete and beautifully tailored pair that would be difficult—and expensive—to replicate today.

At 35.5 inches tall, they are appropriately scaled for substantial bedside chests, a living-room console, buffet, or matching side tables. Their quiet color makes them exceptionally versatile: just as comfortable against exuberant wallpaper and saturated Palm Beach color as they are in a serene neutral room.

Elegant enough to behave. Chinoiserie enough not to become boring.

Details

• Quantity: Two lamps, sold as a pair
• Period: Late 20th century
• Style: Chinoiserie, Hollywood Regency, Palm Beach Regency
• Material: Glazed ceramic or porcelain
• Color: Warm cream/off-white
• Decoration: Deeply molded Chinoiserie scenic relief
• Overall height: Approximately 35.5" to top of finial
• Height to socket: Approximately 24"
• Ceramic body: Approximately 7.5" W × 7.5" D × 19" H
• Shade: Approximately 15" W × 15" D × 16" H
• Shade material: Appears to be silk with velvet trim
• Wiring: Original and in good working order
• Maker: Unmarked
• Included: Two ceramic lamps, two shades, two harps, and two finials

Condition

The ceramic bodies are in excellent vintage condition, with no chips, cracks, or crazing observed. The subtle tonal variation within the warm cream glaze appears intentional and beautifully accentuates the raised decoration.

The shades appear to be silk and display the slight natural slubbing associated with the fabric. The shades, velvet trim, hardware, and original wiring remain in very nice, as-found vintage condition. Both lamps were working properly at the time of listing.

All vintage pieces are sold in nice, as-found condition. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description.

As with all vintage lighting, purchasers may wish to have the wiring inspected by a qualified electrician before installation.

Shipping and Delivery

Due to their scale and the fragility of the ceramic bodies and silk shades, these lamps are excluded from Risa Cermak Interiors’ complimentary shipping offer.

The lamps and shades will be carefully packed and shipped in two separate oversized packages. Shipping will be calculated at checkout and paid by the purchaser.

Complimentary local delivery is available within the Tampa area. Local pickup may also be arranged.