Large Art Nouveau Vase With Irises, Signed C. Haböck – Austria, Ca. 1900 – H. 54 Cm

Important Art Nouveau vase in patinated and polychrome terracotta, signed C. Haböck and bearing the model number 477, an Austrian piece from the early 20th century, circa 1900–1910.

This large vase features a particularly sculptural composition decorated with irises modeled entirely in high relief. The flowers spread across the entire body of the vase, while long, supple, and sinuous leaves rise from the base to the neck, detaching in places from the body of the vase to form true plant-like handles.

The piece thus exhibits a beautiful organic movement, characteristic of the Art Nouveau aesthetic, in which the floral decoration no longer merely adorns the form but plays a direct role in its construction.

The surface features a refined patina in shades of silvery gray, bronze, and muted green, accented with golden highlights that emphasize the veins of the leaves, the petals, and the rim of the neck. The matte, slightly metallic finish reinforces the piece’s almost sculptural appearance.

The signature C. Haböck is stamped in relief on the lower part of the vase, accompanied by the number 477.

C. Haböck was an Austrian artist active around 1900, best known for his terracotta sculptures and decorative objects in the style of the Secession and Art Nouveau. His large vases are less common than his figurative works and are distinguished by their vigorous modeling and strongly naturalistic decoration.

A fine example due to its substantial size of 54 cm, the richness of its continuous decoration, and the striking presence of irises in very high relief.

Signs of wear and minor alterations to the patina and gilded highlights are consistent with the piece’s age.