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Fine pair of adjustable lampstands
Like chairs, stools and a number of other types of furniture from the classical Chinese furniture period also lampstands were made in pairs. However, most of the survived lampstands are singles. A small minority of all lampstands made in the mentioned period were adjustable - so combining that here is offered A PAIR OF ADJUSTABLE LAMPSTANDS it goes without saying that we are talking about a remarkable rarity.
It is as certain as it can be that this pair has been made in the same workshop as the pair now in the collection of Minniapolis Institute of Arts, ref. Jacobsen and Grindley: Classical Chinese Furniture in MIA, 1999, item no 59 (formerly in the Collection of the Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture, sold at Christie's New York 1996 at US$74,000!!!!).
Also this pair is made from huanghuali wood.
Mr. Wang Shixiang comments on the pair: "The rarity, unique construction, and tasteful decoration of these two stands combine to make them very commendable indeed."
The type is reproduced on a woodblock print illustrating the novel "Flower in a Golden Vase", in an edition of the Chongzhen period 1628-1644.
Three other examples of a pair of adjustable lampstands are known: one in the Collection of dr. S.Y.Yip (published, one in the Collection of mr. Robert H Ellsworth (unpublished), and a third pair in Gangold Geis Collection , ref. Christie's NY18th Sept 2003, lot no. 50.
This pair is 144½ cm heigh - when extended 202 cm. The base measures 28 cm by 30 cm.
For further reference literature Sarah Handler: "Carries of Lamps: The Chinese Lampstand and Lantern", published in "Journal of the Classic Chinese Furniture Societ, Summer 1994, pag. 19-34 and the chapter 18 in her book: "Austere Luminosity of Chinese Furniture", 2001, pag. 303-318.
This pair has been furnished with modern electric installation in a very decent way and gives a charming soft room light.
Item no. 155
Price € sold
Available photos:
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