Rare Neo-gothic "vieux Paris" Herbal Tea Warmer With Nightlight, Circa 1830–1850

A rare and highly decorative French porcelain nightlight and teapot from the first half of the 19th century, designed in the form of a striking piece of Neo-Gothic architecture.

Probably made in Paris around 1830–1850, it belongs to the category of porcelain generally known as “Porcelaine de Paris” or “Vieux Paris.” Its particularly imaginative design is reminiscent of the creations of Jacob Petit and other major Parisian manufacturers of that period. Since the piece is unmarked, however, we prefer to describe it cautiously as being in the style of Jacob Petit.

The set consists of a tall architectural base topped by a removable teapot with its lid. The base takes the form of a chapel or a fantastical Gothic tower, adorned with pointed arches, pinnacles, twisted columns, balustrades, and rose windows. The small windows, painted in delicate shades of pink, green, and blue, evoke stained-glass windows.

The teapot itself perfectly complements this architectural design and also features rich decoration with Gothic motifs, openwork elements, and abundant hand-painted gilding.

This type of nightlight-teapot was not merely decorative. A small heat source or burner could be placed inside the hollow base to keep the contents of the teapot warm, while allowing the entire piece to serve as a small nightlight.

A very fine example of the Troubadour style and the French Neo-Gothic taste of the first half of the 19th century, a period during which medieval and Gothic architecture experienced a significant revival.

Given its age and the extreme fragility of its architectural construction, the piece is in good condition. There has been no restoration. Two small elements of the openwork balustrade’s battlements are missing, and there is a fine hairline crack on the base. The gilding shows normal wear in places due to age. Please also refer to the detailed photographs, which are an integral part of the condition description.

Any original burner or removable cup is no longer present.

Unsigned / unmarked.

Origin: France, probably Paris
Period: circa 1830–1850
Material: porcelain
Style: Troubadour / Neo-Gothic
Attribution: Porcelaine de Paris (Vieux Paris), in the style of Jacob Petit
Height: 26 cm

A rare and spectacular 19th-century French nightlight and teapot, particularly interesting for a collection of Porcelaine de Paris, pieces in the style of Jacob Petit, or Neo-Gothic porcelain.

Thank you for your visit. Best regards, Ben