Chinese Famille Rose Mounted Vase as a Lamp

Chinese Famille Rose Mounted Vase as a Lamp

This exquisite Chinese Famille Rose Mounted Vase as a Lamp exemplifies the refined artistry of late Qing porcelain. Dating to the Guangxu period, the piece demonstrates the harmonious blend of traditional decorative style with modern functional adaptation.

Origin: China
Date: Guangxu (circa 1870)
Material: Famille rose porcelain

Dimensions: Height of vase: 53 cm (21 ins); Height including shade: 91 cm (36 ins)

Condition: Excellent patina, sympathetically mounted for use as a lamp

Masterfully painted, this baluster-form vase is a testament to the superb porcelain craftsmanship of 19th-century China. Featuring a lively scene with a pheasant perched upon a rock and another nestled amid magnolia blossoms, it is adorned with peonies and delicate floral sprigs—motifs favoured in Chinese decorative arts for their symbolism of beauty and prosperity. Pieces from the Guangxu period are highly prized for their decorative complexity and vibrant enamelwork, as seen in examples collected by major museums.

Notable Features:

• Fine famille rose enamelling, with crisp detail and subtle colour gradation
• Baluster form, accentuated with hand-painted naturalistic scenes characteristic of the Guangxu era
• Adapted into a functional table lamp, providing both illumination and decorative impact

The vase stands as an exemplar of late Qing ceramic artistry, with its harmonious Rococo-inspired curves and delicate symmetry. The famille rose palette, introduced in the early 18th century, reached technical perfection during the Guangxu reign, and this piece beautifully demonstrates the pastel tones and detailed brushwork that define the style. Collectors value such lamps for both their rarity—particularly when featuring auspicious bird and flower compositions—and their potential as focal points within a decor scheme.

Combining decorative history with practical modern use, this porcelain lamp offers versatility: perfect for elevating an interior with a touch of Chinese refinement, or as a significant addition to a collection of antique lamps or ceramics. Its substantial presence and captivating artistry make it ideal for display on a console, sideboard, or bureau, ensuring it will delight connoisseurs and interior designers alike.