Pair of large ormolu mounted Sèvres style porcelain vases

Crafted from ormolu and porcelain, and designed in the charming and eclectic style of the late 19^th century, this pair of vases is a superb example of French decorative art. The vases are designed in a style that amalgamates the Rococo and the Neoclassical: the bodies are painted in the Rococo style, with pastel blues and pinks predominating, while the parcel gilding of the cobalt blue porcelain socles and necks is distinctly Neoclassical.

Each vase features an ovoid body painted in the round with a scene of heavenly putti: on one vase, the putti cavort calmly in a maelstrom, the coursing water providing a bed for the figures, who drink from bowls; on the other vase, the putti are lifted aloft, floating in the sky above an idyllic landscape. The painted scenes on both vases are executed in an accomplished and fluid manner, with the colour palette being decidedly Rococo, a wash of pastel pinks and blues.

Each vase is supported on an ormolu foliate separator, above a waisted cobalt blue porcelain socle profusely parcel gilt with flowing Neoclassical style designs. The circular foot of each vase is set upon an ormolu base, the corners chamfered, and the sides moulded with intricate designs. Each vase culminates in a waisted neck, decorated to conform with the socles, atop of which is placed a later domed cover topped with an ormolu finial.

The painted bodies are signed ‘F Bellanger.’