French Japonesque Art Nouveau Lusterware Vase Clement Massier

A ceramic vase with iridescent glaze in the shape of an elephant foot cache pot by the legendary French ceramist Pierre Clement Massier (1845-1917). Massier is widely considered as the founder the modern ceramic industry of Vallauris, Southern France, and one of the key creators of modern lusterware with iridescent glaze. A master ceramist and glazer, Massier set up his own factory in 1883 in Golfe-Juan outside Vallauris. From the studio there, he developed his famous iridescent glaze. His work had many influence and input from other Near and Far East cultures and went on to win many international awards
The vase on offer was made in 1900 in the Art Nouveau style, thickly potted with heavy wall and covered with a radiant iridescent glaze. The simple form appears beguilingly modern, compared to some of his other more exotic design. The rim was capped with a sterling silver lip for protection. We are not sure if it was made that way or it was added historically but it bears several unidentified sterling marks. The splendid surface decoration was clearly influenced by Japanese aesthetic (Japonesque, which took Europe by storm at that time and greatly impacted on western art for decades to come). One single piece of large maple leaf in shimmering gold and orange dominates the front, on a background covered with geometrical lines that resemble spider webs. The base was pressed marked "Massier Golfe Juan AM' as well as glazed iridescent script "MCM Golfe-Juan Am 1900". In 1900, Massier lost his beloved wife Mary. From 1900 to 1901, he dedicated his creation to her by adding an M to his initials, which is found on this piece.