Early 20th Century Pair of Hand-Painted Samson Armorial Jar Lamps
By Edmé Samson
Located in Solebury, PA
A pair of exquisite early 20th-century Samson Armorial jar lamps, crafted in the Chinese Export Famille Rose style, are adorned with the Great Seal of the State of Maryland on both sides. The porcelain bodies are intricately hand-painted with delicate pastel shades, gilded accents, and the elaborate heraldic motif. Each lamp is mounted on a circular wooden base with double lamp sockets, showcasing exceptional condition and period-appropriate hardware. Samson Armorial refers to finely hand-painted porcelain produced by the renowned French firm Edmé Samson et Cie. This firm is celebrated for its elaborate coats of arms and heraldic designs, often executed in the spirit of 18th-century Chinese Export porcelain or European royal wares. These pieces are celebrated for their meticulous artistry, subtle shading, and lavish gilding. Chinese Export Famille Rose is a vibrant decorative tradition that gained popularity from the 18th century. It is characterized by soft pink and rose hues created from an opaque enamel, complemented by complementary pastels (greens, blues, yellows), detailed figures, floral reserves such as Rose Medallion motifs, gilt highlights, and painting techniques that emphasize nuanced shading and outlined leaves. These techniques distinguish Chinese Export Famille Rose from earlier Chinese porcelain styles. Size: 6.5” D (base) x 26” H C. 1910, France Provenance These lamps were in the governor's mansion during the Theodore McKeldin administration, 1951-59. From the private collection of Charlene O'Malley, a noted Baltimore antiques...
Early 20th Century French Chinese Export Table Lamps
Porcelain
