Ref.14535
Eugène BAUDIN (att. to), Pair of sandstone vases set in a gilded bronze frame

This pair of Louis XV style sandstone balustrade vases bears a gilded bronze outline, inspired by the rocaille style. Four feet support the asymmetrical and precarious base of each vase. The vase’s paunch is enhanced with gadroons and is crowned with a narrow neck. The rim of the neck is also gilded in bronze. The sandstone is covered predominantly in a purple glaze, bringing focus to the deep green shade also found on the vase. It is the use of the different shades of colours, against the clean surface, that makes the work of Eugène Baudin so subtly radiant. A technique highly influenced by the work of the Massier and Vallauris manufacturers.

Ref.15805
Eduard STELLMACHER for Amphora, Ceramic owl vase, circa 1900

This Art Nouveau ceramic vase was produced around 1900 by the Amphora factory. Located in Turn-Teplitz (Austria), the factory was run by Riessner, Stellmacher and Kessel (RSt&K). The piece is stamped "E. St" in a triangle because the design is by Eduard Stellmacher, sculptor and ceramist, son of Albert Stellmacher, who left his partners in 1904 to create Eduard Stellmacher & Co. The number 18 is stamped close to the triangle. Around this vase, with its flattened body and cylindrical neck, an oak branch adds both structure and lightness to the whole. The branch supports the weight of an owl observing the container. The piece is glazed in a green whose reflections vary from more intense shades to subdued ones. A gilded effect highlights the relief of the piece. The enamel is reminiscent of a bronze that would have developed a verdigris patina over time. There are other examples of this vase with a finish that reminds us of metallic surfaces, for instance this piece is enameled in golden and copper colours.