Totally stunning and unique French Napoleonic ceramic gilded lattice Cloche/Bell lantern decorated with white porcelain flowers.

This was a very special find - only enabled by a friend , letting us know of the restoration of an old building that was a Hat shop or "la chapellerie" that closed it's doors in the 1950's and had been left untouched since- We were unsure of what to expect, and travelled some distance to find a "time capsule" behind the dust and disorder- three large mahogany counters, greeted the customers upon entering, each one, once highly polished and gleaming - had 3 porcelain lanterns hanging above- 2 were sadly damaged beyond repair - but the third, had survived and was miraculously unscathed by the years of solitude. 

It is quite magnificent - A porcelain cloche bell, we think maybe produced in Limoges and possibly specially commissioned - but on both counts we cannot be absolutely certain. The shop opened in the 1860's and we are assured these lights were in the shop in 1880. The main lattice bell shape is gilded over a deep reddish brown base- it is substantial and with weight and it has the most beautiful resonating ring , when tapped. around the top where the chain attaches is a very typical art nouveau decorative detail in relief (ironically covered by the silk metallic tassel - which could of course be adjusted as could the chain length - which is currently long) The chain still has the original metallic gold thread fabric covering and a substantial gold heavy passementerie tassel formed over a wooden body. The lower edge of the bell is scalloped and has beading detail. Around the centre of the bell, before it flares out is the most beautiful garland of white porcelain flowers, roses, in bud and full bloom, poppies, marguerites & leaves- so unique.

It has a single bulb holder for an E27 screw fitting bulb- this has an on/off pull chain attached to the the fitting (this is short currently, but could be easily extended if required) The lantern is fully working and wired to current French standards. We always recommend any vintage/antique lighting is checked prior to use in your Country of residence ,to ensure it complies with specific Country requirements.

MEASUREMENTS
Total drop from ceiling rose to base of bell 51"/130cms
Length of chain 38"/97cms
Height of bell 13"/33cms
Diameter at base of bell 11.5"/29cms

Condition- Good antique condition, there is rub and wear to the gilding, commensurate with age. The ceiling rose is tarnished - but as this is toleware this could be left as is - or could be recoated. The chain is original . The porcelain flowers are not free of tiny frits or chips to some of the petals, there is evidence of historic repairs to some of the flowers, petal reattached etc - but all of this is only visible upon close scrutiny - when hanging it is impossible to see. Pease do see all the photos and the video - which show all sides of the lantern.Please remember this lantern is 150 years old - this is a precious antique item with history.

Shipping - we will send professionally packed with the care and attention that this item deserves . We will send from France on a trackable and signed for service. Colissimo France.