Mid 20th Century Art Deco Saint-Clément Style Panther France Green-Glazed Ceramic

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Elegant and finely crafted Art Deco–style panther in green-glazed ceramic, produced in France. The proud animal is depicted in its … Read more Elegant and finely crafted Art Deco–style panther in green-glazed ceramic, produced in France. The proud animal is depicted in its characteristic silent pre-attack stance: the body is fully extended forward, charged with tension and poised for a swift, lethal leap. This powerful and suspenseful representation is emblematic of Art Deco aesthetics, which celebrated formal strength, dynamic energy, and expressive vitality in both human and animal forms. The piece displays a particularly refined and complex manufacturing process. The panther was first hand-modeled in its final form, characterized by smooth and harmonious lines, and then fired at approximately 1000°C (1832°F). A transparent vitreous coating known as “cristallina” was subsequently applied by hand using an ancient artisanal technique. The green glaze was then carefully brushed over the entire surface. This glazing phase requires considerable skill, as the glaze must be applied evenly; to set it, the piece was finally subjected to a rapid second firing at temperatures between 920 and 940°C (1688–1724°F). Observing the underside of one paw (see photo; protective felt pads have been applied to the others) allows for a clearer appreciation of this technique. The panther was produced between 1930 and 1933 in the Lunéville area of France, in the style and tradition of the Saint-Clément ceramic manufactory. Saint-Clément was founded in 1758 by Jacques Chambrette of Lunéville, and the tradition of terracotta production in the Lunévillois region dates back to the 18th century. The ceramics still produced in Saint-Clément and the surrounding areas are the result of this long-standing artisanal heritage. In 1892, the Lunéville and Saint-Clément factories merged, going on to dominate the French ceramics market. The panther is in good overall condition. A small white mark is present on the short side of the base (visible in the photographs), formed during the final firing; as it lies beneath the glaze, it is not visually distracting. Dimensions: Length: 36 cm (14.17 in) Depth: 10 cm (3.94 in) Height: 15 cm (5.91 in) See less