19th Century French Neoclassical style bronze vase by Levillain and Barbedienne

19th Century French Neoclassical style bronze vase by Levillain and Barbedienne
French, 19th Century
Height 145cm, width 53cm, depth 43cm
 
This elegant vase is cast entirely in bronze, and it is signed by the sculptor Ferdinand Levillain (French, 1837-1905) and the master bronzeworker Ferdinand Barbedienne (French 1810-1892), who worked on the vase between them. The vase stands on a curved triangular base of veined, green marble, and features three curved paw feet which suspend the vase between them. The body of the vase is bullet-shaped, and the lower half and upper half are differently decorated. The upper half features gilt bronze Classical depictions of people, animals and arabesques in relief, and twin mounted handles. The lower half is decorated with winged sphinxes surrounded by scrolls and foliage as well as a grain pattern. The surmounting waisted neck of the vase features masks mounted to each side hung with grapes, and a flared rim with an egg and dart pattern.
 
Artist/ Maker: Ferdinand Barbedienne and Ferdinand Levillain