Style Japonism, Chinoiserie / Ref.13727

F. Barbedienne (Attr. to) - Planter with a Chinese cloisonne enamel decor mounted in gilt bronze

This very beautiful planter was made in the 1880's very likely by Ferdinand Barbedienne (1810 – 1892) bronze maker and founder of the maison Barbedienne, from a Chinese cloisonne enamel vase of which the well thought work is very delicate.
Thus, flowers bouquets of various colors and typical of the Asian flora occupies the decor on a plain blue background marked by friezes on the upper and lower parts. This vase after it was created was mounted in bronze in a French workshop as Barbedienne's one in which the bronze work was quite exceptionnal and original, as it is the case here. The base is formed with three elephant's heads finely carved, resting on their trunks and between wich there are blossom cherry tree branches. These three heads are forming the feet and are surmounted with mounts to which are hanging rings. This work of art is typical of a very trending practice in the late 19th century coming from the huge taste for the Far-East : the re-use of authentic Chinese elements in European objects destined to take place on the most somptuous interiors.

The Barbedienne Foundry is a famous 19th century bronze foundry, whose statues and art objects became rapidly very renowned. This bronze studio co-worked with other trades, and put his name to a great variety of works, such as furnishing in particular. Attending every World's Fair of its time, the Barbedienne Foundry was regularly awarded, notably at the World's Fair of 1855 where it was awarded the Great Medal of Honor.