Pair Alabaster Vases on Pedestals / Floor Lamps

A refined pair of 19th-century Italian alabaster vases, masterfully carved and presented on integral pedestals, offer a striking marriage of classical beauty and practical lighting. Crafted circa 1850, these floor lamps exemplify the period’s fascination with grand, sculptural forms and naturalistic ornamentation, echoing the opulent tradition of neoclassical design found in historic Italian villas.

Origin: Italy

Date: Circa 1850

Material: Carved alabaster

Dimensions: Height: 134 cm (53 ins), Width: 37 cm (14.5 ins), Depth: 37 cm (14.5 ins)

Condition: Excellent, with a delicate patina and minor, age-commensurate surface marks

These alabaster vases on pedestals recall the refined taste of mid-19th-century Italy, a period renowned for its revival of classical motifs and flourishing of fine decorative arts. Comparable examples may be admired in distinguished collections such as those found in historic Florentine palazzi or leading decorative arts museums, where alabaster was favoured for its lustrous translucency and ability to evoke the grandeur of antiquity.

Notable Features:

• Exquisite foliate carvings and delicately rendered classical masks
• Raised upon elegant, circular fluted columns and square, stepped alabaster bases
• Internal illumination transforms each vase into an atmospheric floor lamp, accentuating the medium’s natural glow and soft veining

The craftsmanship is especially apparent in the precision of the detailing, from the finely carved botanical motifs to the expressive masks that anchor each piece firmly within neoclassical tastes. The sculptural design boasts harmonious symmetry, with architectural forms reminiscent of Regency and Empire styles, creating a bold yet refined presence ideal for period and contemporary interiors alike.

As a pair of floor lamps, these alabaster vases on pedestals make a rare and distinctive addition to any serious lighting collection or interior design scheme. Their substantial scale and elegant proportions make them particularly desirable, while their dual function ensures both decorative and practical appeal. Perfect for display in a grand hallway, drawing room, or study, these floor lamps bring a touch of Italian artistry and history to any setting.