Pair of antique Sèvres porcelain ormolu-mounted vases

Pair of antique Sèvres porcelain ormolu-mounted vases
French, 18th Century
Height 50cm, diameter 21cm

Dating from the 18th century, this distinguished pair of porcelain vases originates from the celebrated Sèvres manufactory.

Resting on square ormolu bases embellished with delicate floral medallions, each vase stands as a testament to refined craftsmanship and timeless design. The splayed feet feature gadrooned detailing highlighted with white beading and a laurel leaf border.

The bodies of the vases are adorned with hand-painted bucolic scenes, thoughtfully enclosed within oval-shaped cartouches. The principal reserves depict idyllic rural landscapes, including workers in fields and animals such as horses, while the reverse and side panels are decorated with vibrant polychrome compositions of fruits and blooming flowers. These painted vignettes are framed by expertly modelled garlands tied with ribbons and punctuated with ornamental studs.

Adding an extra layer of opulence, porcelain rope cascade from the garlands and connect to ormolu swags richly adorned with fruit clusters. Just below the neck, a blue ground interlaced pattern gives way to a gadrooned band, further emphasizing the richness of the design.

Each vase is surmounted by a domed cover, topped with a pinecone finial and finished with touches of gilding.

They are signed with blue interlaced L's enclosing date letter 'L' for 1764. The cover and ormolu mounts are later additions.

A similar example can be found in the Royal Collection Trust, currently displayed in the Green Drawing Room of Buckingham Palace.

Elegantly capturing the spirit of 18th-century French porcelain, this pair offers both historical significance and visual splendour.

Provenance as a garniture with a clock:
- Victor de Rothschild; Sotheby's, London, 19 April 1937, lot 113.
- The Christner Collection; Christie's, New York, 9 June 1979, lot 251.
- Property of a Texas Collector; Christie's, New York, 1 November 1990, lot 65.
- With Jean Lupu, Paris.
- Anonymous sale; Sotheby's, New York, 11 November 2000, lot 131

Artist/Maker: Sèvres (French, founded 1738)
Materials: Ormolu (Gilt Bronze), Porcelain
Ref: 17740

$40,000