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Emulating Elegance: Delftware's Homage to Chinese Porcelain

The art of pottery has been a form of cultural expression and technical prowess for centuries, with various civilisations contributing unique styles and techniques. Among these, the Dutch Delftware stands out as a remarkable example of cultural emulation and respect for the artistry of Chinese porcelain.

In the early 17th century, Europe was introduced to Chinese porcelain, and it quickly became a coveted item among the affluent. The Dutch, famous for their entrepreneurial spirit and artistry, were particularly taken with the exquisite Kangxi porcelain. The allure was not just its technical and aesthetic beauty but also the mystique of its faraway origins and the mastery of its craft. In an era when the global exchange was burgeoning, Chinese porcelain represented both luxury and the cosmopolitan connectivity of the Dutch.

The Dutch Delft potters, recognising the demand for these precious wares, began to create their own interpretations. They sought to capture the delicate balance of form and decoration that made Chinese porcelain so revered. The present pair of Delft Blue and White vases is an homage to Kangxi porcelain and exemplifies this pursuit. These potters did not merely copy; they assimilated the Chinese motifs into their own artistic vocabulary, creating pieces that bridged Eastern elegance with Western sensibility.

The specific pair of vases in question, dating back to the early 19th century, are a testament to this tradition. They are expertly adorned with four reserves that feature floral borders and alternating panels, a motif characteristic of the Kangxi style. The depiction of vases within these panels, overflowing with an abundance of flowers, is a direct nod to the Chinese artistic emphasis on nature and harmony.

In terms of dimensions, these vases stand tall at 40.5 cm with a generous main diameter of 33 cm, and a well-proportioned base diameter of 19 cm. These dimensions are not arbitrary; they are carefully crafted to provide presence and status in substantial interiors, indicative of the large scale preferred in Kangxi porcelain. The size allows for a significant visual presence, while the base diameter ensures stability, a practical concern for pieces intended to be both decorative and functional.

Note regarding wiring:

We postpone wiring for use in the UK, US, EU, and other regions once we know the final destination. We do not drill vases. The shades are for reference only.

Nicholas Wells Antiques advisors are available to answer all your questions. 

Please email us or call +44 (0)207 6920 897

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Pair of Blue and White Delft Vases as Table Lamps

Stock Number: 27730

This pair of early 19th-century Dutch Delft Blue and White vases (18 x 13 inches), transformed into elegant lamps, perfectly marries historical craftsmanship with contemporary function. Adorned with traditional Kangxi-inspired designs, featuring intricate floral patterns in classic blue on white and white on blue, these vases are mounted to suit the modern interior while paying homage to their rich heritage.

Please note, the lamp shades are for reference only.

£15,000

This rarefied unique piece is subject to availability.
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Telephone: +44 (0) 207 6920 897

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Dimensions

Approximate Dimensions

  • Height: 46 cm (18 inches)
  • Diameter: 33 cm (13 inches)
  • Diameter of base : 19 cm (7.5 inches)

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Our description of any item on the website, any condition report and any other statement made by us (whether orally or in writing) about any item, including about its nature or condition, artist, period, materials, approximate dimensions, or provenance are our opinion and not to be relied upon as a statement of fact.

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In the UK Online sales of this kind are known as ‘distance selling’. We offer a refund to customers if you’ve told us within 3 days of receiving the goods that you want to cancel. You have another 14 days to return the goods once you’ve told us of your intention. A refund will be issued within 14 days of receiving the goods back in the same condition. Return shipping should be the same level as received with insurance, we recommend using the same shipper at your cost. If needed we will help organise suitable shipping.

We will refund the purchase price, excluding delivery costs and taxes, within 14 days of the safe receipt of items in the same condition as supplied. The liability for any damage incurred during transit will remain with the sender. We recommend that adequate insurance is placed on items when returning them to us.

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We extend these Return terms to our international clients.

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We will ship worldwide however the costs vary between countries so please email us for a quote. Depending on the item we will recommend the most suitable method.

Our preferred international shipping methods include fine art shippers Gander and White, Art Logistics, Cadogan Tate for items over £5,000. For Fedex, DHL or UPS shipments we expertly pack in-house in wooden crates or heavy duty cardboard – Suitable for most items under £5000. If you have your own shippers we are very happy to coordinate with them.

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Where required we will oversee the completion of all export licenses for high-value items. We will also arrange for CITES paperwork for materials of endangered species including ivory, tortoiseshell, stuffed birds etc.

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This is dependent on the size and value of the object, all items are checked over and polished before shipping and will generally have wooden crates made. This all takes time so expect 10 – 20 working days for delivery unless the item is small in which case 2-3 days from order.

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