Yellow Umber Glazed Amphora Vase Mounted as a Table Lamp
This distinctive table lamp cleverly repurposes an elegant yellow umber glazed olive jar in the classical amphora style. Its rustic French origins and late 19th-century provenance impart a timeless charm, making it a striking addition to both period and contemporary interiors.
Origin: France
Date: Circa 1880
Material: Glazed ceramic (olive jar)
Dimensions:
Height: 51 cm (20 in)
Diameter: 27 cm (10.5 in)
Base: 17 cm (6.7 in)
Condition: Good vintage condition, with a beautifully preserved patina and only minor signs of age appropriate wear.
Amphora vases have long been esteemed for their sculptural form and historical association with Mediterranean craft. This lamp’s reimagined function is reminiscent of the inventive conversions found in select country homes and reflects the collected, eclectic style popular in late Victorian France. Examples of similar olive jar bases can be viewed in European decorative arts collections, underscoring its relevance for collectors and interior designers alike.
Notable Features:
- Hand-finished yellow umber glaze, lending a warm, rustic appeal
- Classic amphora silhouette with gently flared neck and two scrolled loop handles
- Artisanal accents, typical of regional French pottery from the late 19th century
The harmonious proportions and unpretentious character contribute to the lamp’s considerable design significance, with the amphora reference subtly echoing Neoclassical taste, while the rustic glaze and generous scale ensure suitability within both country and urban settings. Its robust form offers both tactile interest and decorative versatility.
For collectors of antique lighting or rustic French table lamps, this piece holds particular appeal owing to its imposing size, authentic patination, and the charm of its provenance. Its adaptability as a functional lamp, rewired to modern specifications for your country, adds practical value—perfect for lending a warm, characterful glow to a sitting room, study, or hallway. Whether as a feature lighting piece or a collectible object, it seamlessly bridges practical usefulness and decorative artistry.
At Nicholas Wells Antiques, we take great care in preparing each piece for delivery. As every antique is unique, custom packaging and handling are essential to ensure safe transit. Only once we have checked each item and wax polished them do we aim to ship your order. We will notify you by email once it has been dispatched. Delivery times may vary depending on the item and your location.
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