Chinese Shiwan Stoneware Vase Lamp, C. 1912-20

Rare Chinese flambe stoneware vase in cobalt blue, aqua, and yellow drip glazes, electrified for use as a lamp. The vase is attributed to the Shiwan kilns. Shiwan Province has been the pottery center of Southern China for centuries and is known for its stoneware with thick mottled glazes which have been carried on from the Song Dynasty ceramicists. The available minerals found on the shores of the Pearl River Delta, in mines in the nearby hills, and the abundance of clay and sand made it an ideal location for a productive pottery center. Some components of multi colored glazes do not vitrify at the same rate, nor at the same temperature, which illustrates the skill of the Shiwan potters in their management of glazes & firing. The vase has been mounted on a hardwood base with a turned hardwood lid and electrified for use as a lamp. Shade not included.

China, Early Republic period, circa 1912-20.
Lamp conversion, 2001.

Dimensions: 7-3/4” L x 7-3/4” W x 24” H (to top of socket) – 30-1/2” H (to top of shade – as shown)