Two Antique Cloisonné Enamel and Gilt Bronze Lamps

Each item is comprised of two light sockets, which are attached to a stem. The lights spring from old oil burners, with pierced collars and wick raiser knobs. These surmount decorative gilt bronze covers, which are encircled by flared and pierced ruyi bands.

The lamps feature baluster-shaped bodies, which are decorated with beautiful cloisonné enamel designs. In this method, metal wires are applied to the surface of the object to create cells of space (called ‘cloisons’) which are then filled with vitreous enamel. For these lamps, the enamels have been made to form a bright blue ground, decorated with colourful flowers and butterflies. The lamps’ waisted necks are encircled by white, navy and red ruyi heads, and their shoulders by black bands containing colourful vines.

Each lamp stands on a pierced circular gilt bronze base which is set on four feet. These take the form of mythical creatures with open mouths and curling tails.