Pâte-sur-pâte translates to “paste on paste” in English and was a decorative porcelain method popularized in the 18th century at the Sèvres porcelain factory in France.  A relief (raised) design was created on an unfired, unglazed colored porcelain piece by applying many layers of white porcelain liquid clay called “slip” with a brush.  Once the shape was built up to the designer’s liking, it was carved to give fine detail before firing. This work is very painstaking and may take weeks to complete.  Pâte-sur-pâte is considered a very fine type of porcelain craftsmanship.  This lamp is a beautiful example.

 

Bronze d'oré, also known as ormolu or gilt bronze, was a decorative finish used on luxury furnishings in the 18th and 19th centuries. An application of finely ground high carat gold and mercury amalgam was placed on objects of bronze. When subjected to extremely high heat, the mercury evaporated, leaving behind a lustrous coating of gold.

 

Gilt-bronze trim was used to protect furniture from damage and to emphasize form, and to mount beautiful objects such as candelabra, clocks, lamps, pedestals and porcelain vases.