Longwy – Kilbert: Impressionist Ceramics, Circa 1883–1885

Pair of wide-bodied, long-necked vases made ofglazed earthenware (slip glaze), featuring an Impressionist design ofblooming flowers and branches on a blue background,accented with gold. The sculpted handles depict stylized chimera heads.The naturalistic floral design, characterized by great pictorial freedom,features delicate shades and monochromatic tonesof blue characteristic of the artist’s work.

Signature: E. Kilbert, on the lower part;LONGWY, in a recessed stamp beneath the base.

Dimensions: H. 33 cm × W. 18 cm

Emmanuel Kilbert (born in Alsace, active circa1880–1890)

A painter, decorator, and ceramicist of Alsatian origin,Emmanuel Kilbert began his career with Eugène Schopin before joining theLongwy factory from 1883 to 1885. He then continued hiscareer in Gien, working for Dominique Grenet.

A specialist in slip-decoration, he creatednaturalistic floral designs in delicate shades, particularly inshades of blue, sometimes accented with gold. His style, characterized by greatpictorial freedom, contributed to the artistic revival of theLongwy factory in the 1880s.

His body of work, limited to just a few years, isnow rare and highly sought after. Kilbert ranks among the leadingartists who contributed to Longwy’s prominence in the late 19thcentury, alongside creators such as Émile Gallé and CharlesRudhardt.

Private collection.

Condition
Very good condition

• C. G. M. La Ceramics of Longwy, ed. Massin, Paris.

• Longwy: 200 Years of Ceramic Creation, exhibition catalogs.