Napoleon III Chinoiserie Lamp In Porcelain And Gilt Bronze

This exceptional lamp, crafted in France during the second half of the 19th century under the reign of Napoleon III, exemplifies the luxurious taste and eclecticism of the period. A rare and distinguished model, it uniquely combines fine porcelain with richly gilt bronze (bronze doré), harmoniously uniting two noble materials in one refined piece.

The porcelain base is a masterpiece in itself, adorned with intricate floral and avian motifs in the chinoiserie style — a European interpretation of Chinese decorative arts. The delicate patterns feature peonies, chrysanthemums, and exotic birds, meticulously hand-painted in a soft yet vivid palette of greens, blacks, rust, and blues. The background is richly decorated with a profusion of stylized flowers on a black ground, punctuated by fine gilt highlights and lattice-work bands, reflecting the period’s fascination with the Far East.

The lamp retains its original lampshade, an extremely rare element. The shade is made of pleated silk and trimmed with golden fringe, supported by a gilt bronze structure adorned with laurel garlands and floral detailing. The crowning feature — a finely sculpted arrow — is part of an adjustable height mechanism, allowing for both practical and aesthetic versatility.

A remarkable collector’s item, this lamp blends Eastern inspiration with French imperial grandeur.

Dimensions:
Total height: 103 cm
Porcelain base height: 40 cm
Lampshade diameter: 46 cm