These superb vases are a wonderful piece for any Napoleonic collector, painted with scenes of the great leader in battle. The excellent painted bodies are surrounded by the navy ground typical of Sèvres-style porcelain, overlaid with gilt detailing.
Of inverted ovoid form, the bodies are expertly painted, and are each signed by the artist ‘H. Desprez’. Each vase depicts Napoleon (pictured atop a horse with a green jacket) and his men, preparing for battle or in discussion. The continuous nature allows the vases to be appreciated from all angles.
The neck and foot of each vase sport an elegant ‘bleu lapis’ (navy) ground – a hallmark of Sèvres porcelain. Each waisted neck is parcel gilt with a crowned French Imperial Eagle, which would have adorned Napoleon’s battle standard, surrounded by curving foliate designs. The necks are surmounted by domed lids, decorated with similar scrolling motifs. Each lid is capped by an ormolu pinecone finial.
The vases stand on splayed ‘bleu lapis’ feet, which are decorated with further gilt images including winged torches and foliate sprays. Each vase is set on an ormolu plinth with canted corners, applied with crests, ribboned rosettes, and circular beading.
The underside of each vase is signed ‘M. Imple de Sevres’.
Combining expert painterly skill with luxurious ormolu additions, these superb vases are a true collector’s item.
