Marcel Mouly (1918–2008) Important Lidded Ceramic Tobacco Jar. Galerie De Berri

A rare and important lidded tobacco jar in glazed earthenware by Marcel Mouly (1918–2008), a major painter, lithographer, and ceramicist of the École de Paris.

This remarkable ceramic piece, measuring 23 cm in height, is entirely hand-modeled and coated with a magnificent crackled green glaze featuring deep hues. The body features a sculpted design of recessed reliefs, while the lid is crowned with an elegant, stylized squirrel, rendered with great imagination—a hallmark of the artist’s visual language.

The piece is signed “Mouly” on the base, with the signature engraved on the underside.

The interior is completely sealed, confirming its function as a tobacco jar.

The condition is remarkable, with no chips, no restoration, and no pitting.

Provenance

This work has a particularly interesting provenance: it was acquired directly from the exhibition “Marcel Mouly – Paintings and Pottery” exhibition held at the Galerie de Berri, 12 rue de Berri in Paris, from December 20, 1949, to January 7, 1950.

The original invitation card for this exhibition has been preserved and will be included with the pot, serving as a valuable testament to its provenance.

Marcel Mouly’s ceramics, produced in limited numbers in the late 1940s, are much rarer on the market than his paintings and lithographs.

This work combines the qualities most sought after by collectors:

• large size (23 cm),
• original animal subject,
• magnificent crackled green glaze,
• authentic signature,
• perfect condition,
• documented provenance.

A first-rate piece for a collection of modern art or 20th-century French ceramics.

Dimensions:

• Height: 23 cm

Condition:
Excellent condition. No restoration.

Provenance:
Galerie de Berri, Paris – Exhibition “Marcel Mouly, Paintings and Pottery,” 1949–1950 (original invitation card preserved).