Ellis Ceramics Table Lamp in Metallic Ombre, c1970s

This ceramic table lamp base was made by Ellis Ceramics, the Melbourne pottery founded in 1953 by Dasa and Milda Kratochvil, dated to the late 1960s or early 1970s.

The form is built from deeply recessed circular panels, a heavier, more sculptural language than Ellis's better-known decorative lines, and one that recalls the faceted, geometric ceramics coming out of West Germany in the same period, Cari Zalloni's Facette design for Steuler being the best-known example of that style, though this is a local reading of it rather than a direct reference. The glaze runs from a high-gloss bronze lustre into a textured, drip-glazed finish, giving real depth across the surface depending on the light.

The lamp is paired with its original fabric shade, a geometric weave finished with amber bead fringing, a detail that is often missing or replaced on pieces this age.

The ceramic is free of chips or cracks, with the metallic glaze still vibrant and reflective. The original shade is intact, with the weave and fringing in good condition. The lamp has been professionally tested and tagged for use in Australia.

Dimensions: 72cm overall height, shade 45cm diameter, 30.5cm length.

A genuinely sculptural piece of Australian studio pottery. Available to view in our Torquay studio.