This elegant 1960s lamp is a fine example of mid-century Oriental revival design, combining sculptural artistry with functional lighting. The lamp features a beautifully detailed figure of an elderly Oriental man, depicted in motion with a flowing beard and traditional conical hat. Crafted from resin in a rich ivory tone, the figure stands barefoot upon an intricately carved openwork base, holding a tray of pinecones (?) that adds both symbolism and charm. The accompanying original cream fabric lampshade, trimmed with fringe, softens the overall aesthetic and enhances the lamp’s warm, nostalgic glow when illuminated.
During the mid-20th century, lamps of this kind were produced in Britain, Italy, and Hong Kong, often as decorative export pieces inspired by Chinoiserie and the Western fascination with Eastern art and motifs. They were marketed towards middle-class households looking for affordable yet exotic statement lighting that complemented the popular Hollywood Regency, Art Deco revival, and Orientalist interiors of the time. The use of cast resin rather than ivory or bone made such designs more accessible, allowing for fine detailing without the cost of carved materials.
The lamp’s materials and design reflect a period of experimentation in post-war home décor, when new synthetic materials like resin allowed for mass production of intricate forms previously limited to ceramics or hand-carved figures. This particular example is an original mid-century piece rather than a reproduction, given the quality of casting, aged patina, and stylistic fidelity to 1960s design. The base and sculpture have retained their creamy aged tone, typical of early resin formulas that mellow beautifully over time; it oozes vintage patina.
Today, lamps of this style and era are valued by collectors and interior designers for their decorative presence and craftsmanship. They appeal particularly to lovers of mid-century eclectic interiors, bohemian vintage aesthetics, and those who appreciate pieces that bridge Eastern-inspired art with Western decorative history.
The lamp is in lovely vintage condition. I couldn't see any significant blemishes and certainly no breakages, cracks etc in the lamp. Just the sign of age and wear in the odd marks and colouring. The shade is the original and as it is cream it has picked up some markings. As per the lamp base, it has no slits or splits or tears, just some slight discolouration and a few marks. It is the original and could be cleaned up I guess, left as is, or indeed replaced. The bell shape does however go remarkably well on this lamp, making it tall and slendour.
This piece offers not only ambient light but also a sculptural narrative — a nostalgic echo of the 1960s fascination with world cultures, interpreted through mid-century craftsmanship and timeless decorative appeal.
size details : 57cm tall incl shade. 44cm tall without shade. base is approx 12cm wide. shade alone is 22cm h incl tassels and 27cm diameter base
box 13
