Atmospheric Ceramic Lamp – Functional Art Object with Shadow Play - Ceramic, glaze, metal - Japan - 1900-2000
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Selected by Surya Rutten
Has over 25 years' experience in Asian art and owned an art gallery.
Estimate € 300 - € 400
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Atmospheric Ceramic Lamp – functional art object from Japan, 34.5 cm high, 19 cm wide, 19 cm deep, ceramic with glaze and metal, dating from 1900–2000, in good condition, signed on the base and with its original tomobako storage box; the lamp has been tested and is in working condition.
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Description from the seller
Item Description:
This unique ceramic electric lamp object, created by an unknown artist, represents an impressive example of contemporary art that fuses functionality with sculptural expression. The lamp features a tall cylindrical form with an intentionally irregular structure, composed of overlapping ceramic slabs in dark, smoky tones. These slabs are partially fractured and sculpted to create dramatic gaps and openings, giving the piece a raw, almost architectural quality reminiscent of weathered stone or abstract ruins. The interior surface is glazed in a vibrant turquoise hue, offering a striking contrast to the dark exterior. When illuminated, light gently escapes through the uneven gaps, casting an atmospheric glow that enhances the interplay of shadows and textures around the object.
This work functions not only as a source of soft lighting but also as a statement piece of modern ceramic artistry. The juxtaposition of rough, broken surfaces and smooth glazed areas demonstrates a deliberate artistic exploration of balance between fragility and strength. Its sculptural form invites different impressions depending on the angle of view, embodying the essence of contemporary art as both practical object and artistic expression.
The lamp is signed on the base and comes with its original wooden storage box (tomobako), which bears calligraphy inscriptions and further confirms its authenticity as a studio-made artwork. The piece is ideal for collectors of Japanese contemporary ceramics, lovers of modern design, or those seeking a distinctive interior accent that merges art and utility.
Condition: The piece has small chips and felt attachments on the underside, consistent with its age and use. These do not detract from its strong presence and sculptural beauty. The lamp has been tested and is in working condition.
Size :
Height: 34.5 cm
Width: 19 cm
Depth: 19 cm
NOITICE:
The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation.
It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally.
Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are the buyer's responsibility.
Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping.
I appreciate your cooperation.
Seller's Story
We have been experienced as an antique dealer for more than a decade, we select and purchase high-quality products from all over Japan. I carefully select items with good taste, whether famous or not. I offer you an encounter with unknown Japanese goods.
Owner Profile
Name: Michito Nagahiro
Born in 1986 in Sapporo, Hokkaido. From an early age, I have been fascinated by the beautiful and practical designs of Japanese art, antiques, and consumer products, as well as the mindset and dedication of craftsmen and artists. I frequently visited museums and solo exhibitions as part of my daily life.
In 2012, under the guidance of a top mentor in the industry, I established myself as an antique dealer, handling a wide range of items, including Japanese antiques and artworks. Since 2017, I have specialized in selling Japanese antiques and fine art, primarily in Europe, achieving over 20,000 successful sales to date.
In 2019, I launched a completely free service to support individuals in Japan who experience loneliness. This initiative involves personally visiting people, engaging in conversations, sharing meals, and, if necessary, providing career advice. More than 1,000 people reach out to me annually for support.
Additionally, I am committed to promoting and supporting the sales of emerging artists whose work has not yet received public recognition. My philosophy goes beyond merely selling objects—I strive to convey the stories, history, and emotions embedded in each piece. By doing so, I aim to connect people with the lives of the artists and bring inspiration to those who encounter their work.
Item Description:
This unique ceramic electric lamp object, created by an unknown artist, represents an impressive example of contemporary art that fuses functionality with sculptural expression. The lamp features a tall cylindrical form with an intentionally irregular structure, composed of overlapping ceramic slabs in dark, smoky tones. These slabs are partially fractured and sculpted to create dramatic gaps and openings, giving the piece a raw, almost architectural quality reminiscent of weathered stone or abstract ruins. The interior surface is glazed in a vibrant turquoise hue, offering a striking contrast to the dark exterior. When illuminated, light gently escapes through the uneven gaps, casting an atmospheric glow that enhances the interplay of shadows and textures around the object.
This work functions not only as a source of soft lighting but also as a statement piece of modern ceramic artistry. The juxtaposition of rough, broken surfaces and smooth glazed areas demonstrates a deliberate artistic exploration of balance between fragility and strength. Its sculptural form invites different impressions depending on the angle of view, embodying the essence of contemporary art as both practical object and artistic expression.
The lamp is signed on the base and comes with its original wooden storage box (tomobako), which bears calligraphy inscriptions and further confirms its authenticity as a studio-made artwork. The piece is ideal for collectors of Japanese contemporary ceramics, lovers of modern design, or those seeking a distinctive interior accent that merges art and utility.
Condition: The piece has small chips and felt attachments on the underside, consistent with its age and use. These do not detract from its strong presence and sculptural beauty. The lamp has been tested and is in working condition.
Size :
Height: 34.5 cm
Width: 19 cm
Depth: 19 cm
NOITICE:
The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation.
It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally.
Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are the buyer's responsibility.
Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping.
I appreciate your cooperation.
Seller's Story
We have been experienced as an antique dealer for more than a decade, we select and purchase high-quality products from all over Japan. I carefully select items with good taste, whether famous or not. I offer you an encounter with unknown Japanese goods.
Owner Profile
Name: Michito Nagahiro
Born in 1986 in Sapporo, Hokkaido. From an early age, I have been fascinated by the beautiful and practical designs of Japanese art, antiques, and consumer products, as well as the mindset and dedication of craftsmen and artists. I frequently visited museums and solo exhibitions as part of my daily life.
In 2012, under the guidance of a top mentor in the industry, I established myself as an antique dealer, handling a wide range of items, including Japanese antiques and artworks. Since 2017, I have specialized in selling Japanese antiques and fine art, primarily in Europe, achieving over 20,000 successful sales to date.
In 2019, I launched a completely free service to support individuals in Japan who experience loneliness. This initiative involves personally visiting people, engaging in conversations, sharing meals, and, if necessary, providing career advice. More than 1,000 people reach out to me annually for support.
Additionally, I am committed to promoting and supporting the sales of emerging artists whose work has not yet received public recognition. My philosophy goes beyond merely selling objects—I strive to convey the stories, history, and emotions embedded in each piece. By doing so, I aim to connect people with the lives of the artists and bring inspiration to those who encounter their work.
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
1900-2000
Country of Origin
Japan
Material
Ceramic, glaze, metal
Height
34.5 cm
Width
19 cm
Title of artwork
Atmospheric Ceramic Lamp – Functional Art Object with Shadow Play
Depth
19 cm
Condition
Good condition
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