Pair of Late 19th Century Napoleon III Style Hand-Painted Opaline Glass Vases

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We kindly invite you to read the entire description, as we strive to provide detailed technical and historical information to … Read more We kindly invite you to read the entire description, as we strive to provide detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our items.
This exclusive pair of elegant French opaline glass vases dates back to the Napoleon III era (second half of the 19th century). Created in a small artisan workshop in Wimmenau, located in the Vosges region—an area renowned for its prestigious glassworks (Saint-Louis, Lalique, etc.)—these vases are a unique example of the artisanal excellence of the time. The artisan skillfully shaped the molten opaline glass entirely by hand using specialized tools to achieve the desired form. The vases were then allowed to cool naturally. Once solidified, a highly skilled painter, artist, and miniaturist decorated the white opaline surface with an exquisite botanical design. This intricate decoration features flowers with delicate petals and raised details, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and artistic care characteristic of the period. The depicted flowers, reminiscent of large daisies, symbolize purity and simplicity, while the colorful leaves add a vibrant and natural touch. A subtle blue tint was applied along the rims of the vases, enhancing their overall elegance. The vases were then placed in a low-temperature kiln to permanently set the colors. Finally, they underwent a slow cooling process in a tempering oven, a procedure performed with great care and expertise. The back of the vases has been intentionally left simple, adorned with a light decorative vine to emphasize a perfect balance between ornamentation and the purity of the design. Opaline glass is a slightly translucent material, rendered opaque by the addition of phosphates, sodium, calcium chlorides, and metallic oxides. This technique produces a variety of shades ranging from milky white to black. Compared to "lattimo" glass, opaline is less dense and opaque, distinguished by its unique elegance. Originating in France at the end of the 18th century as an imitation of the semi-opaque Murano and German glasses of the 17th century, opaline glass reached its peak popularity between 1820 and 1870, thanks to the remarkable creations of French manufacturers such as Baccarat, Saint-Louis, and Choisy-le-Roy. From the 19th century onward, opaline glass became widely known across the globe, used for crafting artisanal items of everyday use. France has long been recognized as the leading producer of the highest-quality opaline glass, and this pair of vases is a remarkable testament to that legacy. With their timeless design, these refined objects blend understated elegance with exceptional artisanal craftsmanship, making them unique and unparalleled. The superior quality of their workmanship makes them ideal for enhancing and embellishing any setting.
The two vases are in good condition. Dimensions: Diameter 16 cm, height 31 cm.
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