Art Deco Playing Panthers Cats Desk or TV Lamp, 1950s

Rare ceramic TV lamp features two ballet dancers, man and woman, in front of abstract graphic background, sculpted in Art Deco style. Other examples o...

Sculptural majolica lamps feature complex hand-sculpted reticulated bodies with 4 vertical segments; two narrower segments are composed around the central medallions of Sun God face, surrounded by abstract geometric pattern, and two wider segments consist of complex lattice work, influenced by Art Deco and Renaissance styles. Minimal elongated shape of the lamps balances highly textured reticulated designs, and the choice of white glaze adds a Modernist touch to the pieces. The lamps are mounted on brass bases with brass fixtures; they are signed by the artist on the inner rims of the ceramic bodies. The ceramic parts were acquired from the importing warehouse that operated in 1940s-1970s; they were stored unused, as old new stock, for at least 50 years, before finally being wired. It is quire rare to find a pair of lamps by an important Italian ceramic artist of early 20th century; we are excited to be able to offer another pair of white majolica lamps by Alfredo Santarelli in different shape in a separate listing. The lamps are fully operational with the new brass single turn knob sockets, wired for US 110v, standard polarized plugs. The ceramics are in good vintage condition with some age-appropriate signs of storage wear on the glaze that are not detracting from the overall quality of the pieces, and are shown in the pictures. The issues can be corrected professionally at discretion of the customer; we chose to not restore the ceramic parts to preserve the original condition and the vintage charm of the lamps. Alfredo Santarelli (1874-1957) was born in Gualdo Tadino, Italy; he is considered one of the most important Italian ceramic artists of the 20th century. His talent in drawing and his mastery in the tin glazing technique (lusterware) won him a large number of golden medals in International and Italian ceramic exhibitions. His excellent portraits and classic subjects are prized collectors’ items, but he also interpreted Islamic, Liberty and Art Deco designs and shapes with great originality. In the second half of the 20’s his art evolved in line with the contemporary trends. Santarelli started his career in the pottery studio of Paolo Rubboli...

This is such a cool lamp, the panther looks ready to pounce, full of strength and energy!! I think this type of back lit lamp was made as a TV lamp to put on the newly invented telev...

Art Deco table lamp, circa 1950, Poland. Dimensions: height 54 cm / diameter 30 cm