Located in Moreno Valley, CA
A beautifully handcrafted vintage Moroccan Moorish lantern featuring jewel-toned multicolor glass set within an intricately pierced metal framework. Made by skilled artisans in Marrakech, Morocco, circa 1980, this decorative lantern combines traditional Moroccan metalworking with amber, emerald green, lavender, cobalt and pale blue glass to create a richly atmospheric piece of North African lighting.
The lantern has a distinctive faceted geometric form, measuring 18 inches high overall and 8.5 inches wide and deep. Its architectural silhouette is composed of multiple angled sections, with colored and textured glass panels alternating with pierced metalwork. The upper and lower sections are particularly attractive, featuring openwork geometric Moorish patterns designed to allow light to escape through the metalwork.
When illuminated from within, the combination of translucent colored glass and pierced metal can produce a warm jewel-like glow while projecting subtle patterns of light and shadow onto nearby walls and ceilings. The effect is characteristic of traditional Moroccan lighting and makes the lantern especially appealing for interiors where atmospheric illumination is important.
A small hinged door provides access to the interior. The lantern is currently not wired for electricity. It may be displayed with an appropriate candle or LED candle, or professionally wired for electrical use by a qualified electrician in accordance with local requirements.
The upper hanging loop allows the piece to be suspended as a Moroccan pendant lantern or decorative hanging light. Its relatively compact scale also makes it particularly versatile for an entryway, powder room, bedroom, reading alcove or grouped installation. It can also be incorporated into a wall-mounted installation with suitable professional hardware.
The combination of aged metal and colored glass gives the lantern the collected character particularly desirable in Moroccan, Moorish, Mediterranean, Spanish Colonial and eclectic interiors. It also provides a strong artisanal counterpoint within contemporary spaces, where its sculptural geometry and jewel-toned glass can function almost as a suspended decorative object.
Handcrafted in Marrakech, Morocco, circa 1980.
Dimensions:
Overall height from upper loop through lower finial: 18 in.
Width: 8.5 in.
Depth: 8.5 in.
Lantern body / glass shade: approximately 12 in. H × 8.5 in. W.
Condition: Good vintage condition with wear consistent with age and use. The aged metal surface contributes to its authentic vintage character. Not currently wired for electricity. Intended for indoor use.
Attributes I Would Correct
Origin: Morocco
Manufacture: Marrakech, Morocco
Period: Late 20th Century
Date: Circa 1980
Style: Moorish
Materials: Metal, colored glass
Techniques: Handcrafted, pierced/cut metalwork
Electrical: Not wired
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor use
Form: Faceted geometric / polygonal lantern
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Category
20th Century Moorish Maghreb Lanterns