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When the lightbulb was invented in the late 19th-century, it became a trend to show off the new invention in an equally impressive mount: an antique vase. This blue-and-white vase is of Vietnamese origin, likely from the 15th or 16th century, and was used by the Bourn family in their Library, where it is today.Label
When the lightbulb was invented in the late 19th-century, it became a trend to show off the new invention in an equally impressive mount– an antique vase. Most lighting fixtures required drilling a hole in the vase; however, this lamp preserved the vase, and the fixture was added from the top.
This blue-and-white vase is of Vietnamese origin, likely from the 15th or 16th century, making it the oldest piece at Filoli. It was inspired by Chinese blue-and-white ceramics; however, the painting style is much softer than that of China. Another important distinction is the use of an off-white base instead of a stark white, which slightly dulls the contrast between the blue and the base. The vase features lotus flowers, birds in bamboo, and clouds over water. The lotus flower is important to Vietnamese culture as it represents purity, dignity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening.
Historically, the lamp was kept in the Library, where it is today.
