Naples, Circa 1850. Reproduction Of A Pompeii Lamp

The excavations of Herculaneum and Pompeii since the 18th century have unearthed a wealth of everyday objects and furniture, which remain fascinating in their elegance and whimsy for those fortunate enough to see them in the Parthenopean museums. This desire among wealthy tourists to bring back souvenirs from their grand tour prompted local artisans to produce objects copying the originals, often in smaller sizes for easy export. Such is the case with this object, a faithful replica of extraordinary ancient lighting fixtures, composed of a tripod decorated with palmettes, surmounted by three sphinxes, and topped by a branch crowned with a crane holding a twig in its beak, allowing oil lamps suspended by chains to be placed on either side. The complexity of decorative motifs was highly valued by the wealthy inhabitants of the slopes of Vesuvius. Made of bronze with a black patina, it is in very good condition. Ideal for an antique-style cabinet in the spirit of the 19th century.