Early 20th Century French Quimper Faience Ox Cart Planter or Vide Poche

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This early 20th century French faience planter or vide poche was crafted in Quimper and dates to circa 1920. Modelled … Read more This early 20th century French faience planter or vide poche was crafted in Quimper and dates to circa 1920. Modelled as a charming ox-drawn farm cart, the antique ceramic piece captures the folkloric spirit of rural France through both sculptural form and hand-painted decoration. Two expressive oxen stand yoked beneath a blue harness, their bodies adorned with delicate floral motifs in cobalt, yellow, iron red, and green. Their gently naïve modelling and warm character are emblematic of Quimper craftsmanship from the period.
The open cart behind them forms a usable cachepot with a softly scalloped rim and flared square body. One side panel features a hand-painted scene titled “La Bourrée en Auvergne,” depicting figures in traditional regional costume dancing in a pastoral mountain landscape. The decorative cart wheel is highlighted with ochre and cobalt accents, while the molded base is finished in a mottled green and yellow glaze suggesting grassy terrain beneath the animals’ hooves.
Executed in glazed ceramic with vibrant polychrome enamels over a crisp white ground, this antique Quimper planter blends regional narrative decoration with sculptural whimsy. The underside bears a hand-painted workshop mark and reference numbers consistent with early 20th century production.
The piece remains in excellent antique condition commensurate with age and use, with minor surface wear consistent with handling.
Dimensions: 7.5”W x 13.5”D x 6.5”H See less