1940s Fragonard M. Langbroek Signed Rococo Ceramic Table Lamp

Description

A little history lesson first ...

The work of the French painter Jean Honoré Fragonard constitutes the final expression of … more A little history lesson first ...

The work of the French painter Jean Honoré Fragonard constitutes the final expression of the rococo style of art. He was famous for the fluid grace and sensuous charm of his paintings and for the virtuosity of his technique. Born in France in 1732, his family moved to Paris when he was only six years old. This is where Fragonard began his apprenticeship in painting. It wasn't until the late 18th century that he hit his stride, immersing himself in the rococo style. It was aristocratic in nature, sensuous, intimate, and designed to provide pleasure; stylistically it depended upon soft, luminous colors, complex surfaces, refined textural contrasts, free brushwork, and asymmetrical compositions based on the interplay of curved lines and masses. Produced for highly sophisticated patrons, rococo painting concentrated on aristocratic diversions, the game of love, decorative portraits, mythological and allegorical themes frequently treated in a playful manner, and idyllic pastoral scenes. Fragonard died in 1806.

More than a century later, artist Maarten LANGBROEK was born in Holland. In the course of his life, he became a very successful and well-known etcher, graphic artist, engraver, painter and draughtsperson. He died in 1985. Langbroek's works are mainly sold in France.

And now on to this beautiful piece ...

This is a stunningly beautiful rococo style hand painted ceramic lamp by M. Langbroek, styled after the work of Jean Honoré Fragonard. Signed "Fragonard," and then in a different script underneath that, "M. Langbroek." Best I can discern after extensive research, this lamp was produced in Amsterdam Holland in the 1940s. The background color of vibrant plum purple, which has been given a faux marbled effect, provides the perfect backdrop for the delicate and detailed hand painted 3-person minstrel courting scene. Stands 15.75" tall (up to the top of the socket), and 24" tall (up to the top of the finial on the harp). Footprint measures 5" square.

Exceptionally fine condition with no chips, cracks, or unusual wear. Hand painted musical scene remains pristine. Some wear to the gold finish of the base and handles. The electrical parts work just fine. NO BULB OR SHADE INCLUDED. less