Pair Of Sèvres-style Porcelain Wine Coolers

A pair of porcelain water coolers, cylindrical in shape and slightly flared toward the sides, with rounded walls, resting on a low, molded circular base. Each cooling bowl features two small side handles in the form of stylized rings, applied in relief and shaped like ears, partially highlighted in pure gold. The “monochrome” painted decoration in shades of purple/magenta is a technique that enjoyed great success beginning in the second half of the 18th century. The vases depict bucolic and rural landscapes in the Arcadian style. One vase depicts a view featuring an ancient tower or circular ruin, leafy trees, and small birds in the sky; while the other vase depicts a small rural village with farmhouses, set atop a hill and surrounded by similar vegetation. The background is enriched by small, meticulously rendered figures in scenes of daily life and delicate shading that recreates clouds and atmospheric depth. The upper rim is accented by a purple band embellished with a geometric garland entirely in pure gold, as is the base, which is also accented by a purple band embellished with a continuous, finely enameled floral motif, entirely in pure gold. Both water coolers are marked on the underside of the base, where the symbol of the intertwined double intertwined “L,” which is typically associated with Sèvres porcelain; however, based on some research, we conclude that it is an “apocryphal mark” or “pseudo-mark” in the Sèvres style. In fact, from the late 19th century through much of the 20th century, numerous luxury porcelain workshops—especially in France (in Limoges) and in Italy, such as the prestigious Giulia Mangani manufactory in Florence—began using the double “L” to certify stylistic conformity and inspiration drawn from the splendor of French royal porcelain. The phrase “Modèle et decoration exclusive à la main” is not part of the official 18th-century Sèvres marks, but emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a certificate of artisanal authenticity. It served to assure buyers of the time that the object was not decorated using decals or industrial processes, but was painted entirely by a master painter. These two water coolers can be classified within the artistic production of the 20th century. Porcelain pieces bearing this identical combined mark are highly valued today for their decorative and collectible qualities in the antique market, precisely because they attest to handcrafted workmanship.

PERIOD First half of the 20th century

DIMENSIONS H. 18 cm diameter Ø 21 cm

CONDITION Excellent condition, “perfect”