Veilleuse literally translated from French means night light or side light. Made from porcelain, they date back to the 1700's.
The earliest form of Veilleuse was made to serve the purpose of food warmer. It consisted of a bowl on a stand. The bowl was used for porridge, soup and herbal liquids for invalids in sick rooms or hospitals. The stand on which the bowl rested contained a ‘godet’ (jar or pot) which contained oil and a wick.
Veilleuses were usually translucent and thus they could provide light. This made the Veilleuse suitable as an ornament, a light, as well as to provide a warmed medicament for the invalid or sick child.
In time to meet the status or families of influence, distinctions, the aristocrats, the Veilleuses were made more ornate and decorative. The bowl had been replaced by teapots. Sometimes it had the shape or forms of figurines or personages even at times with a crest or insignia.
|
|
|
In the 1830's, more attractive forms appeared in France. They still had the rounded vessel or ‘goget’, which contained oil gotten from vegetables or nuts and a floating wick. The porcelain was made to withstand heat and was translucent so it glowed when lit.
Due to the fact that early potteries lack identifying marks the birth place of this rare antique cannot be actually stated with certainty. Dr Fredrick Freed of Trenton, Tennessee, born on the 7th of November 1889 had the largest private collection of Veilleuses. It numbered over 650 Veilleuses-theireres (nightlight teapots). His collection dates between 1750 to1860. this collection is available for public view at Trenton, Tennessee till date.
If you have items like these for sale, you may advertise them on this page.
If you know additional helpful facts on this subject, contact us!
Go back to Glossary Main Page.
|
