Sèvres: Pair of large porcelain vases in red and gold with galant scenes – 20th century

Sèvres: Pair of large red and gold porcelain vases with galant scenes – 20th century

Fine and imposing pair of polychrome porcelain vases, richly gilt on a raspberry-red ground, each resting on a square base in gilt bronze or brass.

Of Medici form, each vase features on its principal face a large reserve painted by hand, depicting galant scenes with figures in 18th-century costume, in the manner of Watteau. The scenes are framed by an abundant gilt decoration composed of rinceaux, foliage, palmettes, latticework and rocaille motifs.

The reverse and sides are equally richly ornamented with gilt motifs, elegantly enhancing the deep red ground. The widely flared necks and socles are heightened with gilt fillets and friezes.

Both vases rest on handsome quadrangular cut-sided gilt metal bases, lending the ensemble a strong and distinguished presence.

A painted blue mark beneath the base, visible in the photograph, may allow the manufacturer's attribution to be refined following further research.

A fine decorative ensemble, remarkable for its proportions, the richness of its gilding and the quality of its painted scenes.

Period: 20th century
Style: Napoléon III, in the 18th-century taste
Materials: polychrome and gilt porcelain, gilt metal mounts
Decoration: galant scenes, rinceaux and rocaille ornaments
Condition: good overall apparent condition, with light wear to gilding and traces of use consistent with age.

Dimensions:
Height: 32 cm
Diameter at neck: 22 cm