1940s Chinese Famille Rose porcelain pair of figural table lamps featuring the Goddess Magu and the God Shou Lao, the deities of longevity. While the lamps were made in the 1940s, the porcelain figures appear to be much older.

Research reveals that Magu, known as the "Hemp Lady," is celebrated as the Goddess of Longevity. Her association with the hemp plant, Cannabis Sativa, further enhances her link to immortality, as it is the oldest Chinese pharmacopeia connected to the elixir of life. Accompanying her is her faithful companion, a spotted deer, which is said to live long and be the only creature capable of finding the mushroom of immortality that Magu seems to be holding in her hand. Additionally, she serves as a symbolic protector of women.

Shou Lao, known as the God of Longevity, is recognizable by his oversized forehead, which represents wisdom, and his long beard, symbolizing a long life. He holds a peach and a staff, both symbols of longevity, which are said to have come from the magical garden of the Goddess Xiwangmu in Heaven, where the fruits of longevity grow.

The porcelain figures are hand-painted with vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and gold highlights. They are mounted on beautifully detailed brass bases with a lovely patina, featuring brass roped stems that support the bulbs and harps for the shades. The lamps measures approximately 31 inches in height (to the top of the shades) and 7.5 inches in width by 6 inches in depth. The porcelain figures themselves measure approximately 13 inches in height by 5.5 inches in width by 4 inches in depth, not including their brass bases. The overall lamp measurements with the shades on are 31 inches in height by 17.5 inches in width by 17.5 inches in depth.

I will include the vintage silk pagoda shades, which are in fair condition but have had their linings removed.

Please note that the brass finials are different from one another.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: The brass bases and roped stems exhibit a charming vintage patina. The only imperfection I could find on the porcelain figures is a very small chip on a leaf in the Goddess's basket. This chip is difficult to notice and blends in with the leaf designs. Otherwise, the lamps are in very good vintage condition, showing expected signs of wear due to age and use. While the lamps were made in the 1940s, the porcelain figures appear to be significantly older. Please examine the photos closely, as they are part of the description. I will also include the vintage silk pagoda shades, which are in fair condition. These shades show some slight fading, wear, and their linings have been removed. Please note that the brass finials are different from one another. Also note the room setting photo is virtually staged and for illustration purposes only. All other photos are of the actual item.

Origin:
China

Materials & Techniques:
Brass, Porcelain, Silk

Details:
Plug Type: Type A
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: China
Is this piece in working condition? Yes, I have checked myself that this piece works
Lamp Shade: Included
Voltage: Up to 120V (US Standard)
Power Sources: Corded

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; The brass bases and roped stems exhibit a charming vintage patina. The only imperfection I could find on the porcelain figures is a very small chip on a leaf in the Goddess's basket. This chip is difficult to notice and blends in with the leaf designs. Otherwise, the lamps are in very good vintage condition, showing expected signs of wear due to age and use. While the lamps were made in the 1940s, the porcelain figures appear to be significantly older. Please examine the photos closely, as they are part of the description. I will also include the vintage silk pagoda shades, which are in fair condition. These shades show some slight fading, wear, and their linings have been removed. Please note that the brass finials are different from one another. Also note the room setting photo is virtually staged and for illustration purposes only. All other photos are of the actual item.