Ref.12951
Ernest-Baptiste LÉVEILLÉ (attributed to), Eugène ROUSSEAU (after), Koi Carp Vase, circa 1885-1890

This koi carp vase was created by Ernest-Baptiste Léveillé based on a design initially conceived by Eugène Rousseau. François-Eugène Rousseau (1827-1890) established himself in 1855 as a merchant specializing in porcelain and faience, while also engaging in glasswork. Toward the end of his life, inspired by Venetian techniques from the 16th century, which the Chinese practiced in the 18th century, he achieved unexpected designs by layering nuanced colored layers. His works reflect his interest in Japonism. In 1885, he sold his business to his former pupil, Ernest-Baptiste Léveillé. The production of the “Maisons Rousseau-Léveillé réunies” remained characteristic of the techniques developed by Rousseau until the master’s death in 1890. Subsequently, the models became more daring and intricate. Léveillé participated in numerous Parisian Salons between 1892 and 1897, as well as the Universal Exhibitions of 1889 and 1900, during which he received a gold medal. The design of our koi carp vase, in polychrome enamel on slightly smoked glass, is treated in the vein of Japanese prints. The koi carp is a mythical animal in East Asian culture. According to an ancient legend, the bravest ones, which manage to swim up the mighty Yellow River, would transform into dragons with golden scales. An almost identical vase, although its design is entirely in relief and not enameled, is housed in the collections of the Ackland Art Museum in Chapel Hill.

Ref.15525
4 cast iron wall lights, based on models from the Pont Alexandre III

4 cast iron wall lights with bronze patina made from models from the Pont Alexandre III in Paris. These lanterns were designed in the 20th century as part of the Schlumpf Museum decoration project. In 1957, the Schlumpf brothers bought a 19th century textile factory in Mulhouse to display their car collection there. Thus created, the Schlumpf Museum remained open until 1977. From March 7 of the same year, the museum was occupied by unions, launching the highly publicized "Schlumpf affair". Today managed by the Association of the National Automobile Museum, the Musée National de l'Automobile - Schlumpf collection museum houses the largest collection of cars in the world. This collection is lit by 800 street lamps based on the models of the Pont Alexandre III created at the request of Fritz Schlumpf. Made by Lacarrière et Cie, the lanterns of the Pont Alexandre III are among the most famous in Paris. Founded in the early 19th century, Lacarrière et Cie is a company that has produced many candelabras in Paris and has participated in no less than twelve universal exhibitions, winning many prizes. View of the lanterns of the Pont Alexandre III, Paris, France, 1897-1900.