Pair Of Two-light Wall Sconces Made Of Saint-clément Earthenware – Landscapes – Circa 1870

Pair of two-light wall sconces made of Saint-Clément earthenware – Landscapes – Circa 1870–1880

A very rare and spectacular pair of two-light wall sconces, produced by the famous Saint-Clément factory in Lorraine during the 1870s–1880s.

Each sconce features a large plaque with a swirling shape, modeled in a particularly decorative Neo-Rocaille style. The heavily relief-carved frame displays a rich decoration of volutes, foliage, shells, and palmettes, in a sumptuous harmony of deep blue, purplish brown, cream, and gold polychrome glazes.

In the center, two distinct landscapes are rendered in gouache-style enamels and appear almost watercolor-like, so delicate are they. Executed in a subtle palette of browns, bluish grays, and very soft greens, they depict lakeside landscapes enlivened by trees, paths, waterways, and distant architecture. The finesse of the design, almost calligraphic in places, contrasts elegantly with the power of the relief decoration and its much stronger colors, as well as the golden effect that illuminates the entire piece.

The lower part of each wall sconce features two earthenware candle holders designed to hold candles. Simply place four candles in them to restore their original function and reveal their full decorative power: once mounted on the wall and lit, they will create an absolutely remarkable ensemble, as warm as it is dramatic, and promise memorable candlelit evenings.

They are, therefore, a truly warm decorative element that will quickly become an essential functional item for enhancing lovely evenings.

Both pieces bear a handwritten “St Clément” signature on the reverse, accompanied by workshop marks and numbers.

This pair is as captivating for its generous dimensions as it is for the quality of its modeling, the richness of its enamels, and the unique character of its landscapes. The fact that the two wall sconces are still together is also a real asset. A very fine example of Lorraine’s artistic production from the second half of the 19th century.

Manufacturer: Saint-Clément, Lorraine
Period: circa 1870–1880
Material: polychrome glazed earthenware, gouache glazes, and gilded highlights
Dimensions of each wall sconce: height 39 cm – width 28.5 cm
Lighting: two candle holders per wall sconce
Signature: handwritten “St Clément” signatures on the reverse

Condition: in good overall condition considering its age. Very rare chips and small cracks, as well as some wear on the gold highlights. These signs of age are subtle and in no way detract from the set’s remarkable decorative presence