Pair Of Glazed Ceramic And Gilded Bronze Vases Attributed To Jules Vieillard & Cie, Bordeaux

Pair of glazed ceramic vases with gilded bronze
Attributed to Jules Vieillard & Cie, Bordeaux
Napoleon III period

An elegant and rare pair of glazed ceramic vases with polychrome decoration set in a rich, finely chased and gilded bronze mount, attributable to the Jules Vieillard & Cie manufactory in Bordeaux, one of the most prestigious French manufactories of the second half of the 19th century.

Founded by David Johnston and later taken over by Jules Vieillard in 1845, the Bordeaux-based manufacturer gained international renown for the quality of its artistic earthenware, its naturalistic decorations, and its remarkable technical expertise. Today, Vieillard’s creations are highly sought after for the richness of their glazes, their decorative originality, and the finesse of their execution.

This pair features a sumptuous design inspired by the Far East, which was particularly popular during the Second Empire. Against a luminous turquoise background, flowering branches are brought to life with delicately colored birds, foliage, clusters of flowers, and small insects rendered with great finesse. The ensemble offers remarkable freshness of color and exceptional glazing quality.

The vases are embellished with an elaborate gilded bronze mount featuring acanthus leaves, volutes, and coiled handles, all executed with remarkable chiseling. The richness of the bronze harmonizes beautifully with the vibrant hues of the ceramic, creating a particularly decorative and refined ensemble.

This piece reflects the eclectic taste of the Napoleon III era, blending Orientalist influences, technical virtuosity, and decorative luxury.

In very fine condition. The glazes have retained all their original freshness and luster. The gilding displays a beautiful antique patina.

Period: Napoleon III, second half of the 19th century.
Attributed to: Jules Vieillard & Cie, Bordeaux.
Materials: polychrome glazed ceramic and gilded bronze.
Height: 34.5 cm.
Overall width including handles: 24 cm.

A particularly charming pair, combining the quality of Jules Vieillard’s Bordeaux-made pieces with the elegance of Second Empire gilt-bronze mounts.