Plate: "the Crystal Staircase," Paris, Rabbit, Japonism, Rousseau Bracquemond

Antique plate from L'Escalier de Cristal, Paris – Rabbits, Japonism, after Bracquemond – circa 1885, 23.5 cm

Polychrome fine earthenware plate produced for the Parisian firm L'Escalier de Cristal, circa 1885, in the Japonist style developed from the designs of Félix Bracquemond. The design depicts two white rabbits eating radishes beneath a flowering branch from which a Japanese lantern hangs. The asymmetrical composition is set against a white background, with a scalloped rim accented by a blue combed border.

This design is part of the legacy of the famous Rousseau dinner service, designed by Félix Bracquemond in 1866 and inspired by Japanese prints. L’Escalier de Cristal subsequently developed its own animal-themed tableware sets, notably the set known as “aux Grands Oiseaux” (Great Birds), to which this plate belongs. The design is printed and enhanced with underglaze colors.

Handwritten signature “Escalier de Cristal Paris” on the reverse, accompanied by engraved marks for the Choisy-le-Roy factory. An example of the same model, dated around 1885 and also depicting rabbits, radishes, and a lantern, is held at the Musée d’Orsay under inventory number RF MO OAO 2017 13 18.

Good condition, minor wear, no restoration, no cracks; see photos.