Pair Of Large Cast Iron Vases Decorated With Griffins, France, 19th Century

Pair of large cast iron vases decorated with griffins, France, 19th century Superb and rare pair of cast iron vases, from the 19th century, presenting a monumental silhouette and a decoration of great ornamental richness. Each vase adopts an ovoid cup shape, resting on a circular pedestal with a square base, carefully molded. The widely flared body is punctuated by a relief decoration of stylized foliage of neoclassical inspiration, recalling the rigor and elegance of ancient forms. The handles constitute the most remarkable element: they take the form of fantastic griffins, hybrid creatures from Greco-Roman mythology, symbols of vigilance and power. The powerfully curved body, the curved neck and the proudly raised head accentuate the sculptural character of these pieces. Their design bears witness to the refinement of the great French art foundries of the 19th century (such as Val d'Osne, Durenne or Barbezat), which distributed throughout Europe this type of model inspired by Antiquity and the Renaissance. Cast iron, a noble and durable material, allows here a rendering of great precision in the modeling, notably in the details of the plumage and the windings of the handles. The natural, homogeneous brown and rust patina gives the whole an additional nobility, testifying to the passage of time and the authenticity of the pieces. These vases, both works of art and elements of decorative architecture, were intended to adorn parks, pleasure gardens or monumental terraces, fitting perfectly into the 19th century taste for landscape staging and the return to classical aesthetics. Dimensions: (to be completed: height x width) Period: 19th century Material: Cast iron Provenance: Probably a large French decorative commission from the 19th century. Condition: Very good general condition, old patina preserved. By their balance, the quality of their cast iron and the elegance of their design, these vases constitute a rare and decorative pair, worthy of the finest collections or a historic park.