Pair Of Grey Porphyry And Gilt Bronze Vases Attributed To Pierre-philippe Thomire (1751–1843)

France, Louis XVI style, late 18th – early 19th century

Height: 65 cm

Elegant pair of vases in grey porphyry, adorned with finely chased gilt bronze mounts of exceptional quality. The composition and refinement of the modeling support an attribution to the circle of Pierre-Philippe Thomire, one of the most prominent French bronziers of the neoclassical period.
The ovoid bodies rest on square plinths. A continuous frieze in gilt bronze decorates the upper section, featuring satyrs and fauns playing musical instruments, amid garlands of vines, grapes and floral elements. On each side, finely cast full-relief satyr heads display remarkable expressiveness and sculptural finesse.
The upper rim is lined with an internal gilt bronze collar, adorned with chased foliage, while laurel leaves encircle the base in harmonious correspondence with the upper decoration. The overall design and execution reflect the high artistic and technical standards associated with Thomire’s workshop, whose works are preserved in major museum and private collections.