White Opaline Ewer And Basin With Portraits Of Women, Napoleon III Period, Late 19th Century

White opaline ewer and basin with portraits of women, Napoleon III period, late 19th century

White opaline ewer and basin decorated with portraits of women, late 19th century

An elegant toiletries set in milky white opaline, dating from the late 19th century and consisting of a water jug and its matching basin.

The ewer features an elegant pear-shaped body, extended by a flared neck with a gracefully curved spout. Its large curved handle, as well as the piece’s contours, are delicately highlighted with gold fillets.

The set is adorned with hand-painted polychrome portraits of women, set within graceful gilded medallions accented with pearls. Small polychrome floral reliefs and emerald-green geometric motifs enrich this refined composition.

The circular basin harmoniously echoes the same decorative motif of female portraits, beaded medallions, and gilded highlights.

With the delicacy of its paintings, the brilliance of its gilding, and the elegance of its forms, this set is a fine example of the decorative arts of the Napoleon III era.

Period: late 19th century
Style: Napoleon III
Material: milky white opaline
Decor: hand-painted polychrome female portraits, floral motifs, and gilded highlights
Composition: a water pitcher and its matching basin
Condition: very good condition