How do I date a lamp?

Dating relies on stylistic clues in the porcelain painting, glaze characteristics, and the accompanying mounts. Eighteenth-century pieces often display deeper potting and softer enamel tones compared to later production. Metal fittings added during conversion can also provide clues, as nineteenth-century ormolu mounts differ significantly from twentieth-century electrical hardware.

Are these lamps converted vases?

Many Chinese porcelain table lamps began life as decorative vases, ginger jars, or temple vessels before receiving electrical wiring and mounts later in their history. This practice preserves antique ceramics by giving them a functional purpose in modern interiors. Some pieces were assembled as lamps during the nineteenth century using European ormolu mounts tailored specifically to the ceramic base.

What is Famille Verte?

Famille Verte is a ceramic palette defined by a dominance of green enamels, supplemented by iron red, blue, yellow, and black. Developed during the Qing dynasty, it creates vibrant pictorial scenes across the porcelain surface. Pieces utilising this style often depict detailed narrative landscapes or floral arrangements set against white porcelain.

How do I care for silk shades?

Silk and fabric shades require gentle dust removal using a soft brush or a low-suction vacuum attachment. Avoiding direct sunlight prevents the delicate fibres from fading or becoming brittle over time. Care should also be taken near the bulb fitting to ensure heat does not accumulate against the fabric.