Théodore Deck

Mosque Lamp C0089

Inventory Number
C0089Size
14 1/8" H x 10" WMaterial
EarthenwarePeriod
Aesthetic PeriodCountry of Origin
FranceYear Made
c1880Status
AvailableCondition
Perfect

Description

Théodore Deck, inspired by Iznik, Assyrian, Hispano-Moresque, Chinese, and Italian Renaissance ceramics, worked in the historical revival idiom that defined the mid-nineteenth century Aesthetic movement. He made this ceramic vase in the image of an Egyptian or Syrian mosque lamp, a glass form that had been traditionally commissioned by sultans to adorn mosques and tombs. The originals were ornamented with Koranic verses, lit by wicks in oil, and suspended from ceiling by chains attached to loops on the vessels. This version is clearly meant to function as a work of art rather than a source of light. One of the forerunners of Art Nouveau, Deck trained the next generation of ceramists, including Edmond Lachenal and Émile Decoeur. Marks: stamped artist's name.