Oil lamp carried by an Egyptian woman - Guisepe Valadier (Roma, 1726-1785)

Egyptian Woman Holding an Oil Lamp Attributed to the Italian Artist Luigi Valadier (Rome, 1726–1785)

This oil lamp is attributed to the renowned Italian artist Luigi Valadier, an extraordinarily inventive Roman silversmith and bronze artist celebrated for his table decorations and objects crafted from bronze, marble, and hard stone. Valadier’s creations, which adorned the tables of popes and European royalty, were considered the pinnacle of luxury in the 18th and early 19th centuries.

The lamp reflects the fascination with Egyptomania and classical references that captivated Europe in the 18th century. It stands out for its originality, the excellence of its craftsmanship, and the elegance of its materials. The upper section features a silver oil lamp carried by a bronze Egyptian figure with a dark patina, wearing a silver belt around her waist. A domed glass magnifies the flame's light, enhancing its brilliance.

The sculpture rests on a cylindrical base of alabaster and porphyry, set atop a square pedestal of antique Portor marble.