These extraordinary vases are attributed to Hermann Böhm, a highly skilled and celebrated Austrian artist specialising in enamelwork. Establishing his workshop in 1866, Böhm quickly gained international recognition, with his pieces receiving great acclaim at prestigious exhibitions, including the 1873 Vienna Exhibition. His workshop employed around twelve artisans, whose combined expertise produced exquisite masterpieces like this magnificent pair. Working in the Renaissance Revival style, Böhm and his contemporaries catered to an elite clientele, creating lavish decorative wares inspired by historical designs.
Each six-sectioned body is richly adorned with Renaissance Revival motifs, framing numerous oval panels featuring pastoral scenes, mythological narratives, celestial apotheosis, and classical allegories. Rendered in a delicate pastel palette, with dominant blue and red hues, these detailed vignettes are set against a cream-colored ground, embellished with polychrome foliate trails, putti, and scrolling patterns. Even hidden surfaces, including the interior and underside, are meticulously decorated, underscoring the vases' exceptional quality.
Framing these elaborate paintings are cast and pierced silver-gilt mounts, enhanced with enamel details. These striking embellishments depict winged spirits, grotesque masks, female busts, cherubs, and court jesters, adding depth and movement to the design. The twin caryatid handles, surmounted by winged dragon heads, are further accentuated with vibrant polychrome enamelling, predominantly in reds, blues, and greens. Some details are gem-set, enhancing the opulence and refinement of Böhm’s artistry.
The rim of the neck is adorned with intricately sculpted floral swags, leading to richly decorated lids. These feature three-dimensional flowers and leaves, sprouting from the centre, alongside en tremblant elements - delicate ornaments mounted on springs that create subtle movement, adding a dynamic quality to the vases.
Resting on shaped silver-gilt bases, these masterpieces rise from an ornate stem, centred by a Corinthian column, surrounded by four dolphins with cherubs seated atop them. Between the dolphins stand four allegorical female figures, further enriching the grandeur of the design.
Inspired by 16th and 17th century masterpieces, Viennese artisans often studied models from the Imperial Collections, the Green Vault in Dresden, and leading art publications. This allowed them to meticulously recreate and reimagine Renaissance designs, as exemplified by these museum-worthy vases.
A true testament to Hermann Böhm’s extraordinary craftsmanship, this one-of-a-kind pair embodies the elegance and artistic excellence of the Renaissance Revival style, making it a standout addition to any distinguished collection.
