A Pair Of Large Sèvres Porcelain And Gilt Bronze Bowls, H. Picard, 19th Century

Pair of Monumental Sèvres Bleu Céleste Porcelain Jardinieres by H. Picard, circa 1850–1860

A rare and monumental pair of Sèvres porcelain jardinieres with a luminous bleu céleste ground, richly mounted in finely cast, chased and gilt bronze by the celebrated Parisian bronzier Henri Picard.

Of elegant oval form, each jardiniere is decorated with two large hand-painted polychrome reserves. The first features a refined pastoral scene depicting a gallant couple in a French garden, with a sumptuous floral bouquet on the reverse. The second is painted with three playful putti among flowers, while the reverse displays a beautifully rendered floral composition.

The painted reserves are framed by delicate gilt foliate scrolls and ornamental motifs, creating a sophisticated contrast with the vibrant bleu céleste porcelain ground.

The spectacular Louis XV-style ormolu mounts display an elaborate Rococo vocabulary of pierced scrollwork, shells, acanthus leaves and asymmetrical curves. The sweeping foliate handles extend gracefully from either side of the porcelain bodies, while the richly modelled openwork rims form an impressive crowning element.

Each jardiniere is raised on an architectural gilt-bronze base decorated with shells, scrolls and acanthus leaves, resting on four outward-scrolling feet.

The bronze mounts are signed “H. Picard” and bear a foundry mark. The porcelain bears the Sèvres manufactory mark beneath the base.

Parisian work of remarkable scale and decorative quality, Napoleon III period, circa 1850–1860.

In good condition, retaining its original antique gilding.

Dimensions:

Height: 57 cm / 22.4 in / Width: 55 cm / 21.7 in /Depth: 33 cm / 13 in

Henri Picard

Henri Picard was one of the most distinguished Parisian bronze founders and gilders active during the middle of the 19th century. His workshop was recorded at 6 rue Jarente between 1831 and 1839, and later at 10 rue de la Perle until 1864.

Renowned for the exceptional quality of his castings, chasing and gilding, Picard supplied decorative works for the apartments of Emperor Napoleon III at the Louvre Palace.

A monumental pair of twelve-light candelabra signed “H. Picard” and dated circa 1840 is preserved in the collection of the Musée du Louvre.