Sevres Porcelain Cup From The Second Half Of The 18th Century

A small but significant sky-blue Sèvres porcelain cup, typical of the French manufactory, dating from the second half of the 18th century. The main body is made of fine porcelain, characterized by a sky-blue background. This shade was originally made famous by the Royal Porcelain Manufactory of Sèvres in the 18th century and has remained a symbol of the utmost luxury. In the center, the cup features a reserved area, framed by gilded volutes and decorated on the inside with landscape scenes of gardens featuring perimeter walls and marble vases, with a bouquet of flowers in the foreground—meticulously painted in vivid, brilliant colors on both the front and back of the cup. The cup is mounted on a sumptuous base made entirely of chiseled bronze gilded with mercury, of the highest quality, typical of fine Parisian cabinetmaking and decorative arts.  The base is entirely adorned with motifs of seashells, volutes, and curls, featuring female figures at the four corners supporting the cup; the front and back are decorated with fabric-like festoons, while the sides feature floral motifs. The upper part of the cup is crowned by a gilded bronze decoration, entirely carved and openworked with a floral motif, with two handles on either side depicting two winged cherubs playing musical instruments. The cup is marked on the underside with the classic mark distinguishing Sèvres porcelain: two crossed “L”s enclosing the letter “m,” indicating the date 1765; below the mark is the letter “D” followed by four dots, which identify the decorator. Based on some research we have conducted, we have determined that the decorator in question is likely CHARLES-NICOLAS DODIN, active between 1754 and 1803, a renowned miniature painter at the Sèvres manufactory, known for his creations featuring refined and meticulous pictorial details. This renowned decorator signed his works with the letter “D” followed by dots or the letter “K.” The quality of the finish and the perfect fusion of the art of ceramics with that of metal casting make this a high-quality decorative antique with striking visual impact.

PERIODSecond half of the 18th century

DIMENSIONS L. 20 cm x D. 12.5 cm x H. 18.5 cm

CONDITION Excellent condition