Emile Tessier: Wall-mounted Earthenware Fountain – 20th Century

A charming decorative wall fountain consisting of a wooden base (at the front) topped by a triangular pediment and a large mascaron in the shape of a fantastical fish, cast in white glazed earthenware.

Water once flowed through the opening at the fish’s mouth into a matching large shell-shaped basin.

This type of ornamental fountain was particularly popular in winter gardens, orangeries, verandas, and patios in the late 19th century.

The contrast between the weathered wood and the white earthenware gives the ensemble a decorative character that is highly evocative of the vacation home interiors of that era.

The wooden wall mount features a beautiful antique patina and appears to have been specially crafted to hold this ensemble.

The basin and the mascaron can be removed.

Period: 20th century
Materials: white glazed earthenware
Origin: France / Emile Tessier

Good overall condition.

• Earthenware with some wear, small chips, and traces of limescale consistent with historical use.
• Wooden mount displaying its original patina and a few natural shrinkage cracks.

• Height: 195 cm
• Width: 42 cm
• Depth: 39 cm