Thrown on the wheel in two parts using a speckled stoneware clay, this large lamp base was painted by hand with porcelain slip and a cobalt blue wash. Its form and decoration draw inspiration from ancient pottery—Ming dynasty carp pond vases, early Persian ware, and the quiet balance of medieval ceramics. Extra details have been carved through the slip using sgraffito, adding texture and movement to the surface.

Glaze-fired to 1250°C, the finish reveals a soft sheen and those lovely basalt freckles that run through the clay. The cobalt has melted into the glaze in that gentle, blurry way I love.

You’ll notice subtle imperfections—brush marks, glaze variations, and the occasional rough patch where iron or basalt has surfaced. These are part of the character of the clay and the way I like to work.

This particular piece is a second: the base has been repaired using kintsugi (gold fixative). It’s completely functional and strong—only the aesthetics are affected. Please see the close-up photos for details.

The lamp is fitted with an antique brass bayonet fitting, wired with 3-core fabric flex and a UK 3-pin plug.

Shade not included. Seen here with 40cm Empire shade from Jim Lawrence.

UK shipping only
Dimensions: 48cm cm high (with light fitting) × 38 cm wide
Care: Wipe with a damp cloth