Online Archival Event

We present to you for the first time online, our lovingly stored and archived original samples from our hand painted parchment and ceramic lamp shade line from day one of production. We’ve now documented our art and thanks to the digital world, our graphics are virtually stored in our extensive Image Library. It’s time to release our first batch of prototypes into the world to find their new home!

All items are final sale. 10% Off will occur at checkout.

Oil Parchment Shaded Lamps

Our parchment lamp shades were produced using a process from the 1950's which Janna researched and improved upon - painting on parchment steeped in mineral oil for ultimate luminosity and longevity. Utilizing her own custom color system of over 200 colors, each shade was masterfully painted after months of hands-on training and referencing detailed production manuals. This final sample was selected as the prime example for all to emulate during the painting process.

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Ceramic Shaded Lamps

Our ceramic earthenware shades were designed, slip cast, glazed and fired in our Easthampton, MA studio. Each one was carefully crafted with exceptional attention to detail. The ceramic shade features pierced constellations and a multi-dimensional layering of glazes and other textural effects achieved through repeated firings.

Unique in design and materials; her stone-like ceramic surface and signature spot glazed narrative imagery, make these iconic shades, conceived by Janna, a timeless contribution to collectable lighting.

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Design Process

Janna created the original design and story for each graphic, then directed and delegated the painting of an array of swatches (for example: 5 variations of sage leaves on 3 different backgrounds) on parchment and fired clay sample tiles, often working on eight or more designs for our annual launch. As a team, we sorted several color options, checked for luminosity of color both lit and unlit, or for the repeatable results in glazes.

Once confirmed, the imagery was joined so the design flowed gracefully around the three dimensional form and was successfully viewed from all angles in the room. And then of course the palette! The final colorways were given names and added to our production manuals. A custom color sample swatch was given to our local paint store for color tolerance and precise matching and formulas were documented in color manuals. Janna has created over 200 custom paint colors and we cannot count the amount of custom underglaze and glaze colors!

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Studio Production

The shade design was documented in our design manuals. A formulaic step-by-step process was created for each pattern so that we could re-create any design we made from day one. All of the colors were listed at the top, custom templates made for the placement of a step by step guide for the layers of paint and imagery, followed by special details Janna wanted to guarantee for each (for example: tips on sugar gum leaves are soft or willow leaves are crisp, shadow for building is faint and only one brushstroke). Top and side photos were included and the approved, signed production sample was always present. Extensive group and one on one training with Janna occurred for each graphic (and videos made) and trial runs were created before “firsts” were approved for release.

We only produced to order and once each shade was finished and ready to ship to its final destination, it was matched with its handmade lamp base. Each base incorporated intricate hand modeled hardware, brushed copper, blackened steel or studio cast ceramics. Janna’s sculptural finials and pull charms were selected and graphically driven to complement each pattern. The final inspection occurred in shipping and there it could be sent back for a tweak or approved, signed, dated and hallmarked.

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Lamps That Tell A Story

Whether parchment or ceramic, each lamp shade tells a story of Janna's inspiration: wispy native botanicals, intriguing nightscapes, architectural details, modern patterns, tiny landscapes set in a rich and timeless palette.

These original production samples are the last of their kind; a true heirloom collectable piece. This is a rare opportunity to purchase a vintage Janna Ugone & Co hand painted parchment or ceramic shaded lamp to add to your collection. Each one is unique and a piece of American craft history. Once they sell, they will not be produced again, but as we uncover more we will be adding to the selection online. Please add your email here if you would like to be the first to know about these special releases.

Time and time again, we’ve heard from you that these pieces are incorporated into the fabric of your family. From combining art and utility for creative everyday living to holiday gatherings, we love that our lighting makes your house a home.

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