A pair of vintage Chinese Cloisonné antique vase lamps of baluster form, dressed with bronze mounts

The ancient art of ' Cloisonné ' enamelling using coloured molten glass was used in China some two millennia BC. The word comes from the French for 'cell', as a metal surface was dressed with patterns in brass, gold or silver wire, and the 'cells' created were then enamelled, and polished to a fine and even surface. In the present case of our lamps, initially Chinese vases, foliates and birds are to be seen. These vases were brought to the West, and, with a stroke of inspiration employed as oil lamps, being fitted with ormolu bases in the oriental taste and oil reservoirs and burners; here, the original wick adjusters are retained. Thus, artistic effort, knowledge and tradiuon was combined with typical Victorian practicality, and with our adapation for electricity, a century and a half later, the decorative lighting function is in use again.

• SKU: LTCH0001385
• Origin: China/France
• Category: Chinese Lamps
• Height (Base to Shade Carrier): 18cm x 74cm (7" x 29" inches)
• Weight: 2.0kg each lamp