Gilt-Bronze or Composite Guanyin Figural Table Lamp

This decorative table lamp features a central figure depicting the bodhisattva Guanyin, commonly known as the Goddess of Mercy in East Asian Buddhism. The figure is captured in a standing position atop a stylized lotus pedestal, exhibiting flowing, traditional robes with elegant drapery that suggests movement. It is finished in a warm gold gilding or metallic bronze-tone paint over what appears to be a cast metal or composite material. The figure’s face shows a serene, meditative expression, characteristic of the Buddhist iconographic style, and is crowned with an ornate headpiece or ushnisha. The sculpture is mounted on a contemporary rectangular black base, which provides stability and houses the electrical components. The lamp's hardware includes a brass-finished curved neck leading to a standard socket assembly, topped with a pleated white or cream fabric lampshade. In terms of condition, there is visible surface wear to the gilt finish, particularly on the raised edges of the drapery and chest, revealing a darker under-layer or patina that adds character and age to the piece. There are no major cracks or structural repairs visible in the image. The craftsmanship displays a mid-20th-century aesthetic, likely produced as a high-end Chinoiserie decorative object for the Western market. The quality of the casting is good, with distinct details found in the facial features and the texture of the garments.

Based on my visual examination of the provided images, this is a mid-20th-century decorative table lamp in the Chinoiserie style, featuring a central figure of Guanyin. The sculpture appears to be cast from a composite material or white metal alloy (spelter) with a gilt or bronze-tone finish, rather than solid bronze, which is common for lamps produced for the Western decorative market during the 1950s-70s. The condition is fair to good; there is visible rubbing to the gilt finish on the high points of the drapery and chest, revealing a darker substrate. This surface wear is consistent with age but suggests the finish is a surface application rather than true fire-gilding. The casting quality is respectable, capturing the serene expression and fluid drapery, but lacks the sharpness found in antique bronze statuary. The mounting on a simple black rectangular plinth with standard brass hardware confirms its primary intent as a functional decor piece rather than a devotional object. In the current market, demand for mid-century Chinoiserie lighting is moderate. These pieces are valued primarily for their decorative appeal rather than antiquity. Comparables for similar spelter or composite lamps generally sell in the $150–$300 range, depending on the shade's condition and wiring safety. Truly antique bronze conversions command significantly higher prices ($800+), but I do not see evidence of pre-20th-century origins here. Limitations: Without physical inspection, I cannot definitively confirm the base material (heavy bronze vs. lighter spelter/composite) or the functionality of the wiring. A magnet test and weight assessment would be necessary to confirm the metal content, which could slightly adjust the valuation upward if solid brass or bronze.