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18th-century Chinese Export Porcelain Pair of Court Maiden Lotus Candlesticks

$12,000
£8,980.86
€10,497.09
CA$16,956.90
A$17,116.61
CHF 9,835.26
MX$207,473.96
NOK 113,838.12
SEK 116,279.22
DKK 78,468.62

About the Item

A Transatlantic Glimmer: Chinese Export Porcelain Pair of Maiden Candlesticks, Circa 1760–75 This exceptional pair of Chinese Export porcelain candlesticks offers a captivating glimpse into the globalized luxury market of the 18th century. Crafted in the bustling kilns of China for a discerning European clientele, these large and exquisitely detailed figures of standing maidens embody the "famille rose" style, characterized by a rich palette of overglaze enamels. Each maiden, dressed in robes adorned with delicate gilt and "famille rose" flowers and branches, holds a gu-form vase—a traditional Chinese bronze vessel—repurposed as a candle sconce. Their hair, meticulously styled in a high chignon and painted black directly onto the porcelain biscuit, adds a striking element of realism. While remarkably similar, a subtle difference between the two figures highlights the hand-crafted nature of these objects. Their presence in 18th-century European homes speaks to the insatiable demand for Chinese artistry and the fascination with "chinoiserie"—a decorative style inspired by Chinese motifs. These figures would have served not only as functional light sources but also as powerful symbols of their owner's wealth and cosmopolitan taste. The pair's journey across the world and through time is etched in their condition. A small hole in the base of each figure indicates a past life as French-mounted lamps, a common practice in the 19th and early 20th centuries to adapt these cherished heirlooms to changing lighting technologies. This modification, along with minor repairs to a vase and a few fingers, underscores their enduring appeal and value to subsequent generations of collectors. The historical significance of these pieces is further documented in scholarly references, including Cohen & Motley (2008) and Williamson (1970), placing them within the broader context of Chinese Export porcelain and confirming their place among rare and sought-after examples of the form. These maiden candlesticks stand as a testament to the intricate artistic and commercial exchange that connected East and West in the Age of Exploration and Enlightenment. Dimensions: 15 3/4 inches high x 5 1/2 inches wide x 5 1/4 inches deep (40.01 cm high x 13.97 cm wide) (Ref: NY9459-AUPR)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 15.75 in (40.01 cm)Width: 5.5 in (13.97 cm)Depth: 5.25 in (13.34 cm)
  • Style:
    Chinese Export (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1775
  • Condition:
    Repaired: All conservation is invisible. One head has been off/on, one vase with minor repair and some fingers off/on invisibly repaired. Once French-mounted as lamps so each has a small hole in the base to secure to lamp fitting. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor structural damages.
  • Seller Location:
    Downingtown, PA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: NY9459-AUPR1stDibs: LU861021394432

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