Near Pair of Japanese Imari Vases as Lamps

Near Pair of Japanese Imari Vases as Lamps

A distinguished near pair of Japanese Imari vases, now artfully converted into elegant table lamps, perfectly encapsulates the late Meiji period’s vibrant decorative flair. These table lamps exhibit the harmonious fusion of functionality and refined artistry that characterises Japanese ceramics of the late 19th century.

Origin: Japan
Date: Circa 1890
Material: Porcelain

Dimensions: Height: 26 cm (10 ins), Diameter: 23 cm (9 ins)

Condition: Very good, with minor wear commensurate with age.

Richly evocative of the late Meiji era, these Imari vases-turned-table lamps reflect the period’s enduring appeal for bold hues, intricate ornament, and cross-cultural artistry. Renowned for their multi-coloured palettes and lavish gilding, Japanese Imari wares were prized both in their homeland and among Western collectors during the nineteenth century. Pieces of this calibre are now frequently seen in prestigious museum collections worldwide, admired for their stunning synthesis of Eastern craftsmanship and Western decorative sensibilities.

Notable Features:

• Exquisite Hand-Painted Decoration: Each lamp features the classic Imari palette—deep cobalt blue, iron red, and gold—rendered in intricate floral and foliate motifs. The arresting brushwork highlights the consummate skill and refined artistry intrinsic to Meiji period porcelain.
• Classic Imari Form: The vases display traditional Japanese shapes, with beautifully curved bodies and subtly flared rims. Their substantial scale makes them a striking presence as table lamps, enhancing their decorative value and offering considerable visual impact.
• Collectors’ Appeal: Near pairs of Japanese Imari vases adapted as table lamps are increasingly scarce, greatly enhancing their desirability among collectors of antique lighting and fine Japanese ceramics. Their rarity and classic form make them a prized acquisition for discerning interiors.
• Decorative and Functional: Ideally sized for console tables or mantelpieces, these lamps are as practical as they are decorative. The blend of history, artistry, and everyday usability makes them a refined choice for period or modern settings alike.

As table lamps, these Japanese Imari vases offer a distinctive synthesis of sculptural beauty and practical illumination. Their presence within an interior or curated collection underscores an appreciation for exceptional craftsmanship and cross-cultural history, ensuring they remain cherished highlights in any home or collection.