Pair Of 19th Century Imari Porcelain And Gilt Metal Wall Lights

Pair of Imari porcelain and gilt bronze wall sconces –
Napoleon III period
France, circa 1860-1880
Imari porcelain (Japan, 18th century)
Chased and gilt metal mount
Height: 39cm – Width: 20 cm

Pair of two-light wall sconces, composed of porcelain plates decorated in the Imari style, mounted in a Rocaille-style gilt metal surround. Each plate features rich polychrome decoration, predominantly iron red, cobalt blue and green, with a central floral medallion on a white background, framed by reserves depicting foliage, trellises and stylized landscapes. The gilt metal frame is finely chiseled with foliage scrolls, shells and volutes, typical of the Napoleon III aesthetic. The back reveals a careful mounting with a brass frame holding the porcelain, probably a production of Edo Japan.
These sconces testify to the orientalist vogue and the taste for mounting exotic art objects in the second half of the 19th century. They combine the decorative refinement of export porcelain with French decorative arts.

Condition: very good overall condition. Not electrified.