Monumental antique Sèvres porcelain Neoclassical style vase with mauve ground

Monumental antique Sèvres porcelain Neoclassical style vase with mauve ground
French, c. 1878
Height 152cm, width 72cm, depth 66cm
 
This remarkable Sèvres vase, dating back to 1878, was likely crafted as a showcase piece for the Paris Exposition Universelle of that year. With its impressive stature, rare purple ground, and intricately hand-painted classical scenes, it is a museum-worthy example of the manufactory’s unparalleled artistry.
 
Standing over one-and-a-half meters tall, the vase is shaped in the campagna style and features a distinctive purple ground, a hue seldom seen in Sèvres porcelain. The soft, enchanting tone is elegantly paired with intricate gilded accents, creating a visually striking composition.
 
The neck of the vase is adorned with a continuous painted frieze rendered in sepia tones with gilded highlights. The detailed artwork depicts two Greek gods: Bacchus on the front, riding in a chariot drawn by nymphs and maenads, and Poseidon on the back, navigating a small boat across the ocean, accompanied by cherubs and nymphs. The extraordinary precision of these scenes, with lifelike expressions and dynamic movement, exemplifies the highest level of craftsmanship in porcelain painting.
 
Gilt handles, designed as fluted scrolls branching into columns embellished with leaves and further fluting, are applied to either side. These elegant forms are echoed in the scrolling motifs that embellish the handles and form a decorative frieze around the upper neck.
 
The base of the vase flares outward, featuring foliate and geometric patterns in harmony with the overall colour scheme. It is supported by a square gilt plinth, enhancing its stately presence. Certain decorative elements of the vase are attributed to Jules Diéterle (1811–1889), one of Sèvres’ leading ceramic artists, who served as chief artist in 1848 and led the manufactory’s artistic efforts from 1852 to 1855.
 
Marks on the underside of the vase include ‘DECORE A SEVRES (18)78’, ‘S. 73’, and the potter’s mark ‘CR 72 7 / P. Ro. V. 72.2’, confirming its authenticity.
 
This extraordinary vase, created by one of the most influential porcelain manufacturers in history, represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of artistic and historical significance, making it an exceptional addition to any collection.
 
Artist/Maker: Sèvres