An Exceptional Edward I. Farmer Jade and Coral Clock Garniture with Lamps

An Exceptional Edward I. Farmer Jade and Red Coral Clock Garniture with Matching Lamps, Circa 1930

A remarkably rare three-piece garniture by the celebrated New York dealer and designer Edward I. Farmer (1872–1942), comprising a matching pair of jade and red coral lamps together with an accompanying jade and coral clock. Combining carved Chinese hardstones, natural red coral, and richly cast gilt bronze mounts, the ensemble represents the pinnacle of Farmer's highly sought-after decorative creations and stands among the most elaborate examples of his work to appear on the market in recent years.

The pair of lamps are centered by finely carved red coral figural groups depicting elegant Chinese women accompanied by children, each rendered with exceptional detail and warmth. Rising above the figures are beautifully carved bowl-form jade shades of rich translucent green tone, crowned by jade mythical beast finials and supported by ornate gilt bronze mounts. The combination of vibrant coral and luminous jade creates a striking contrast that epitomizes the fascination with Chinese art and luxury decorative objects that captivated America's most sophisticated collectors during the early twentieth century.

Completing the suite is the matching clock, featuring a jade-framed dial supported by carved red coral figures and jade mythical beasts, all raised upon an intricately cast gilt bronze base. The clock perfectly echoes the design vocabulary of the lamps, creating a harmonious garniture of exceptional decorative presence and rarity.

Edward I. Farmer was one of the most influential dealers of Chinese works of art in early twentieth-century America. Operating prestigious galleries on East 56th Street and West 56th Street in Manhattan, Farmer became renowned for his ability to transform antique Chinese jade carvings, coral sculptures, porcelains, and hardstones into luxurious decorative objects destined for the finest residences in New York, Newport, Palm Beach, and beyond. His work occupies a unique position between Chinese artistry and American luxury design, and today his finest creations are increasingly sought after by collectors of Chinoiserie, Art Deco, and important twentieth-century decorative arts.

While individual Farmer lamps occasionally appear on the market, complete matching garnitures incorporating a pair of lamps and companion clock are exceptionally scarce. The present example is particularly desirable for its extensive use of carved red coral, matching jade bowl-form shades, jade mythical beast finials, and the survival of all three original components as a unified ensemble.

Lamps: Height: 14.5" Shade Diameter: 6.5"

Clock: Height: 7" x Width: 7" x Depth: 3.5"

Provenance:
Private Collection: Palm Beach, Florida, United States

Very good overall condition with minor wear commensurate with age and use. Light rubbing to the gilt bronze mounts, primarily to the base of one lamp. The jade and coral elements are well preserved. Clock has not been tested for timekeeping and is offered as-is. Presents exceptionally well.