Art Nouveau vase transformed into a lamp stand, France, 20th century. Cobalt blue porcelain painted in fine gold. Electrified. Measurements: 67 cm (vase height); 105 cm (total height). Art Nouveau vase in cobalt blue ornamented with floral decoration painted in fine gold. The piece stands on a gilt bronze base and has two Art Nouveau side handles. The mouth, also in gilt bronze, is decorated with floral motifs. The vase has been adapted to serve as a lamp stand. Art Nouveau was a current of artistic renewal that developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Called "fin de siécle" and "belle époque", it sought to break the mould of the dominant styles of the time such as eclecticism, historicism, realism and impressionism. This artistic revolution was characterised by the creation of a totally new, younger, freer and more modern art that manifested itself in architecture, plastic arts, jewellery, furniture and various decorative accessories. The latter included beautiful and artistic vases that were not mass-produced and were created using a variety of materials.