Pair of lamps in cuir de Cordoue imitation porcelain, circa 1880

Pair of lamps in porcelain with a brown background imitating the cuir de Cordoue with relief motifs of stylized foliage, in a baluster shape. White background frieze and neck ring with a decor of ochre foliage scrolls.
Chiselled and gilt bronze mount. Cut shaped top part of the mount and circular quadripod base with decor of openwork scrolls.

Work realized circa 1880.

New and functional electrical system.

Dimensions : H 70 x D 15 cm.

The cuir de Cordoue (also called cordwain or cordovan, meaning from Cordoba) is a leather with embossed motifs painted and gilded. The technique is known since the Antiquity, it was recognized under the Califat of Cordoba in the 10th century thanks to the Moorish who import this technique in Spain.
A sheep or goat skin is plunged in water, beat on a stone and then dry. It is spread with glue and covered with silver or gilt leaves that are brown after the dry. The skin is put under a press with an inked wood board carved with motifs to be embossed. Other operations are also realized as the stamping, the engraving or the gilt hit.