Ceramic Vase Signed Louis Dage

Ceramic vase decorated with hand-painted motifs (veined green leaves and clusters of blue berries) on a marbled background; vase signed Louis Dage (1885–1961). The self-taught painter became a renowned master ceramist, recognized for the founding of the Faïencerie de l'Adour and his innovative techniques and iconic creations. Louis then worked at the Nimy faience factory in Belgium and certainly for Maison Morda, specialized in stoneware. This professional wandering eventually led him to Antony, where he made his name in the world of art. Louis Dage's arrival in Antony marked a key transition in his career. After a short association with Louis Fontinelle, his creations, now signed with his name alone, are tangible proof of his recognition as a ceramic artist. The man, who had until then been content to respond to the demands of his bosses, freed himself in Antony and gave free rein to his creativity. From this period, we find a large number of characteristic pieces, recognizable by the treatment of the background decoration. The pieces are covered with enamels giving an impression of marbling, with variations in color, density, and finish. Dage often designed floral motifs on this background, in particular clusters of blue flowers or fruits and vine or maple leaves, the arrangement of which varied to adapt to the shapes of the pieces. Sometimes, he drew other types of flowers, using a wider color palette, and designed them in a slightly cubist Art Deco style. The Birth of the Adour Faïencerie After separating from his wife, Louis Dage set off for the Landes region. With a certain Paul Bastard, Dage took over a struggling factory founded in Saint-Sever. Together, they renamed this entity "Faïencerie de l'Adour, Tradition de Samadet." Louis Dage remained faithful to his passion for ceramics throughout his life. This persistence is a testament to the strength of his vocation and the uniqueness of his techniques and styles.