A striking and highly decorative pair of antique porcelain mantel vases, richly adorned in an exuberant Rococo revival style. Each vase features lavish gilt relief ornamentation with scrolling acanthus and foliate handles framing finely hand-painted floral bouquets in vivid pinks, ochres, blues, and whites. The scalloped rims and intricate crackle-pattern gilding lend the pieces a theatrical elegance characteristic of late 19th to early 20th century continental decorative arts.
The reverse reveals their pale celeste-blue ground and, notably, historic period repairs to one vase using antique metal staple restorations — a fascinating testament to the objects’ long life and perceived value. Rather than diminishing their presence, these old repairs contribute a compelling sense of history and survival, giving the pair a distinctly wabi-sabi character that collectors of antique ceramics often appreciate.
These would make exceptional statement pieces on a mantel, console, library shelf, or within a maximalist or eclectic interior. Beautiful both as decorative objects and as conversation pieces embodying the layered lives of antique domestic objects.
Condition: Antique condition consistent with age. One vase displays significant historic staple repairs and associated wear/discolouration; both show surface wear, age-related crazing, rubbing to gilding, and minor imperfections commensurate with age.
Production Period: Late 19th Century, est. 1840-1870.
Origin: French.
Dimensions: 33 × 24 × 11.5cm each.
A striking and highly decorative pair of antique porcelain mantel vases, richly adorned in an exuberant Rococo revival style. Each vase features lavish gilt relief ornamentation with scrolling acanthus and foliate handles framing finely hand-painted floral bouquets in vivid pinks, ochres, blues, and whites. The scalloped rims and intricate crackle-pattern gilding lend the pieces a theatrical elegance characteristic of late 19th to early 20th century continental decorative arts.
The reverse reveals their pale celeste-blue ground and, notably, historic period repairs to one vase using antique metal staple restorations — a fascinating testament to the objects’ long life and perceived value. Rather than diminishing their presence, these old repairs contribute a compelling sense of history and survival, giving the pair a distinctly wabi-sabi character that collectors of antique ceramics often appreciate.
These would make exceptional statement pieces on a mantel, console, library shelf, or within a maximalist or eclectic interior. Beautiful both as decorative objects and as conversation pieces embodying the layered lives of antique domestic objects.
Condition: Antique condition consistent with age. One vase displays significant historic staple repairs and associated wear/discolouration; both show surface wear, age-related crazing, rubbing to gilding, and minor imperfections commensurate with age.
Production Period: Late 19th Century, est. 1840-1870.
Origin: French.
Dimensions: 33 × 24 × 11.5cm each.