Large pair of ormolu mounted Canton celadon ground porcelain vases

This beautiful pair of 19th century vases is decorated with numerous nature-inspired motifs. Their delicate porcelain bodies were made in China, while the superbly cast ormolu mounts were manufactured in France.

The baluster-shaped vases are made from celadon ground porcelain. Their bodies are coloured in a pastel green shade, a wonderful base colour for the vibrant nature-inspired illustrations painted all around. Numerous butterflies are portrayed flying among and sitting on a plethora of flowers. All are rendered predominantly with shades of blue, pink, white, yellow, and green. Some include gilt detailing. Further painted designs are found on the inside of the vase. Several bunches of flowers, most likely roses are painted on the white porcelain. The top and bottom of each vase are adorned with a richly patterned frieze painted in similar colours.

The shaped twin handles on each vase are made from porcelain. Each one is gilt creating a superb match for the shining gold ormolu mounts.

The ormolu rims are cast with floral motifs and a flowing design, the shapes reminiscent in look to acanthus leaves. The vases stand on four acanthus leaf shaped feet cast below a decorative band of foliage.

Made in various parts of the world and fusing Eastern and Western design styles, this pair of vases would make an impressive decoration for the appropriate interior space.