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Image of Gallery in South Kensington
On display at V&A South Kensington
Ceramics, Room 137, The Curtain Foundation Gallery

Candelabra

1700 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This candelabra is an example of so-called Kakiemon-style ware, which is typified by the use of bright enamel colours on a fine white porcelain body. The name Kakiemon derives from the family of decorators reputed to have introduced the techniques of overglaze enamelling to Arita in western Japan in the 1640s. Kakiemon-style wares were the costliest and most sought after of all Japanese ceramics exported to Europe. They were widely copied by 18th-century European manufacturers. In this case the candelabra, which is one of a pair, was fitted with ormolu mounts after its arrival in the West.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Materials and techniques
Porcelain decorated in overglaze enamels; with European ormolu mounts
Brief description
Candelabra, one of a pair; porcelain with decoration in overglaze enamels, with ormolu mounts; Japan, Arita Kilns, (Kakiemon type), ca. 1700.
Physical description
One of a pair of porcelain candelabra with European ormolu mounts. The candlestick stands on three curled feet emerging from the mouths of green and red dragons/beasts. There are three branches, curving outwards and upwards. The upper stem of the candlestick neck is decorated with three small elephants' heads and trunks, with beading and ornate decoration around the stem and the candle holders. The lower part of the stem is made of porcelain with decoration in overglaze enamels, featuring bamboo and prunus.
Dimensions
  • Height: 41.6cm
Styles
Credit line
Allen Gift
Object history
One of a pair with C.107-1922.
Subjects depicted
Summary
This candelabra is an example of so-called Kakiemon-style ware, which is typified by the use of bright enamel colours on a fine white porcelain body. The name Kakiemon derives from the family of decorators reputed to have introduced the techniques of overglaze enamelling to Arita in western Japan in the 1640s. Kakiemon-style wares were the costliest and most sought after of all Japanese ceramics exported to Europe. They were widely copied by 18th-century European manufacturers. In this case the candelabra, which is one of a pair, was fitted with ormolu mounts after its arrival in the West.
Collection
Accession number
C.108-1922

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Record createdMay 3, 2000
Record URL
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