Pair of large Kangxi blue and white vases mounted as lamps.

An impressive pair of large Kangxi blue and white vases mounted as lamps.

The ormolu late 18th century, the porcelain Kangxi period (1622-1722), now mounted as lamps

Height vase: 43 cm | Height total lamp: 89 cm
Provenance: Dutch noble family



These impressive lamps are formed from a pair of Kangxi- porcelain vases, dating to the late 17th or early 18th century, later mounted with finely chased 18th-century ormolu and converted for use as lamps.

The vases are decorated in underglaze cobalt blue on a clear white ground, with finely painted panels of flowering shrubs and potted plants, framed by geometric and foliate borders—motifs characteristic of high-quality Kangxi blue-and-white wares.

The porcelain bodies display the balanced proportions and crisp painting for which the Kangxi reign is celebrated: confident brushwork, rich cobalt tones, and a lively contrast between densely patterned borders and more open pictorial panels. Such vases were originally intended as decorative objects, prized in both China and Europe for their refinement and technical excellence.

During the 18th century, as Chinese porcelain became central to European interior schemes, many pieces were mounted with ormolu and adapted into furnishings. The gilt-bronze mounts here—applied to the necks and bases—are consistent with French taste of the period, providing a luxurious contrast to the cool cobalt decoration.

Together, the lamps exemplify the enduring dialogue between East and West: Kangxi porcelain admired for its beauty and craftsmanship, enhanced by European ormolu resulting in objects that are both functional and historically rich.

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