A large, or oversize, ceramic table totem lamp by Bernard Rooke, England.
This design is an early example of Rooke's work - probably 1960s - a sculptural piece in natural tones of terracotta and stone, with a combination of finishes. The lamp is made up of separate hand-built sections - later models being moulded - positioned on a central metal tube, with some elements being decorated with Rooke's own hierogliphic-style symbols. See notes on wiring below.
The ceramic is in good vintage condition, with minor wear and flaws in line with the hand-making and firing process - including firing cracks, nicks, chips, glaze losses and a little asymmetry - see images for examples of detail and overview. As with other early Rooke pieces this lamp is not signed or stamped. We have another piece of similar design listed separately.
Wiring:
Original wiring has been removed; a new E27 bulb-holder is attached and new wiring will be required in the country of install, to meet local needs and regulations. In the main image the hole for the cable is on the right of the base.
Hessian shade is not included.
Approximate dimensions:
Ceramic only:
H 57 cm
W 19cm at base
D 19cm at base
H (inc lamp-holder) 66cm
Bernard Rooke was born in 1938, and studied ceramics at Goldsmiths College in London. In 1960 he set up a workshop in Forest Hill sharing with another pottery artist, Alan Wallwork. Rooke made progressive sculptural work and early pieces were hand-fashioned using coils and blocks. His work is found in private collections as well as museums and galleries around the world, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
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