Ae. Carrier Belleuse, The Three Graces, Art Nouveau Barbotine Ceramics

Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824–1887) – Choisy-le-Roi Manufactory
The Three Graces - circa 1880

Elegant polychrome faience sculpture depicting the Three Graces, goddesses of beauty and charm, shown in a round composition supporting a decorative bowl. Draped in pastel-toned garments – blue, yellow, and pink – they embody the harmony and refinement characteristic of Carrier-Belleuse’s art. The piece is signed on the terrace and stamped HB & Cie Choisy-le-Roi on the reverse, resting on an independent faience base adorned with delicately modeled and painted flowers.

The upper jardinière is missing; small chips are visible on the floral ornaments of the base.

Teacher of Chéret and Rodin, and later director of the Sèvres manufactory, Carrier-Belleuse epitomizes the decorative revival of the 19th century, blending Neoclassical inspiration with the virtuosity of artistic faience.