Art Nouveau Royal Dux Bohemia - Imposing Bohemian Cup Circa 1900 - Nereid - Sdc25dux001

ART NOUVEAU Royal Dux Bohemia - Imposing Bohemian Bowl circa 1900 - Nereid - SDC25DUX001 Very large bowl with a small tray at its base. Decorated with three figures. Bearing the thick red triangular Royal Dux stamp and numbered 48. Large glazed porcelain bowl, representing a nereid seated on a shell like a ship sailing on the waves, supported by two male figures emerging from arum and water lily leaves, one at the prow holding a conch shell in one hand. A sculptural piece of exceptional poetic power: a large mythological bowl depicting a scene worthy of ancient tales. At the top, a nereid (one of the 50 daughters of Nereus) draped in the manner of the Greek muses sits enthroned in a boat. Her serene posture and noble bearing recall feminine figures associated with protection, inspiration, and guidance—an allegory of Grace or perhaps of the Nymph, spirit of the waters. Note the calm posture of the female figure emerging from a tumult, without upheaval; it is an allegory of serenity. The boat springs from the waves. Two young men with supple bodies, like the sea gods of classical tradition, rise from the waves to carry it. One of them holds a conch shell, an emblematic instrument of Triton, messenger of the depths, symbol of maritime power and communication between worlds. The other, straining with effort, seems to guide the ship towards the light. Together, they compose a scene of elevation: the forces of the sea unite their energies to escort a sacred female figure, protective or inspirational, evoking the harmony between the elements and the benevolent presence of the water deities. This cup is not a mere decorative object: it is a fragment of myth frozen in matter, an ode to movement, fluidity, the ancient imagination, and womanhood. About Royal Dux: Founded in 1853 in Dux, near Prague, in northern Bohemia, initially to produce utilitarian objects, the factory was acquired in 1862 by Eduard Eichler (1830-1887), a renowned artist, marking the beginning of its prosperity. But it was from 1898 onwards, following its relocation to Berlin, that works of remarkable quality were produced. Around 1900, this important factory produced vases and figurines, often depicting women, in exuberant decorations of flowers and leaves on shell or fountain bases. The porcelain was left in its biscuit form, gilded or painted, often in green. During the Art Nouveau period, the company achieved success thanks to its collaboration with renowned artists such as the modeler and decorator Alois Hampel. The factory is still in operation today. Description of the piece: The bowl is in good condition, without damage or repairs. There are a few minor chips, not serious, on the inside corners of the valet tray (at the base). Dimensions: 50 x 41 x 22 cm. Weight: approximately 5 kg. Sale: We prefer local pickup. No shipping outside the European Union. Mondial Relay shipping is possible (insurance capped at €500) for €40. Home delivery is €70. Shipping within Europe (shop-to-shop possible) is €100.