Bronze Flemish Lamp

(36"x14"x14")

This 17th-century bronze Flemish lamp draws inspiration from the Baroque period. Baroque art originated in Italy in the early 17th century, and flourished elsewhere into the 18th century. The Baroque design style is characterized by grandeur, richness, drama, dynamism, and movement. Baroque objects or pieces of furniture are identified by elaborate ornamentation, symmetrical compositions, and twisted columns, all of which are seen on this lamp. This object, which was originally a candlestick made into a lamp, stands on three claw feet holding balls. The base features volutes and three cherub reliefs. Cherubs are symbolic angelic figures that represent sacred love. In the 17th and 18th centuries, many Baroque artists and craftsmen included cherubs in their art or furniture. The shaft of the lamp is a twisted stem that emerges from a delicately casted tulip. The lamp also has three lightbulb sockets allowing it to emit ample light. A handmade black and gold shade, which is in excellent condition, is included with the purchase of this beautiful object, which will be a standout addition to any room.

At this time in the Netherlands, the Dutch Golden Age painter and printmaker Rembrandt van Rijn (1606–1669) was active. Rembrandt is considered one of the greatest visual artists in the history of art, due to his mastery of light and shading, and the wide range of subject matter portrayed. The artist is renowned for his talent in depicting people, and celebrated for both his portraits and self-portraits. Roughly one tenth of his oeuvre consists of studies of his own face and self-portraits. His most well known work, The Night Watch, was painted between 1640–1642.