1930s Art Deco Saint-Clément Style French Panther in Antique Glazed Red Ceramic

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We kindly invite you to read the entire description, as it provides detailed technical and historical information to ensure the … Read more We kindly invite you to read the entire description, as it provides detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our items.
A stunning and large Art Deco glazed red ceramic panther. The majestic feline is depicted in its classic pre-attack stance: its body tense, poised to spring forward with lightning speed for a lethal strike. This piece exudes power and suspense, embodying the essence of Art Deco, which in its artistic expressions celebrated form, strength, and dynamism—both human and animal.
The craftsmanship of this piece is particularly remarkable. The raw ceramic was first shaped into its final, elegant form and then fired at approximately 1000°C. Next, an ancient glazing technique was applied, using a transparent glass-like coating known as "cristallina," meticulously brushed on with an ox-hair brush. Once this layer was set, the red glaze was carefully applied by hand to ensure even coverage. The glazing process requires great skill, as it is crucial for the enamel to adhere uniformly to the surface. Finally, to set the glaze, the piece underwent a second firing at temperatures between 920°C and 940°C. Observing the underside of the paws, one can better appreciate this intricate technique. This panther was crafted between 1930 and 1933 in the Lunéville region of France, following the style of the renowned Saint-Clément ceramic manufactory. Saint-Clément was founded in 1758 by Jacques Chambrette of Lunéville and has a rich legacy in ceramic craftsmanship. The history of terracotta production in the Lunévillois region dates back to the 18th century, and the pieces still produced in Saint-Clément and its surroundings reflect this long-standing tradition. In 1892, the Lunéville and Saint-Clément factories merged, establishing their dominance in the French ceramics market. Dimensions:•Length: 46 cm•Depth: 11 cm•Height: 18 cm
Our panther is in good condition, though it has a small imperfection on its back (see photos). This is not a flaw or damage but rather a natural color variation in the material, which commonly occurs during the firing process of terracotta.
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