Faience Wall Cicada Sculpture from Louis Sicard, France, 1950s

Details

Description

The Object

This imposing wall sculpture in the form of a cicada is an outstanding example of 20th-century Provençal ceramic … Read more The Object

This imposing wall sculpture in the form of a cicada is an outstanding example of 20th-century Provençal ceramic art. Measuring 18 cm in length, it is one of the rare large-format models from the renowned Louis Sicard manufactory in Aubagne.

The cicada is far more than a decorative object; it is the iconic symbol of Provence. This piece is distinguished by its excellent craftsmanship: The head is glazed in a deep, reflective anthracite black, accentuated by a vibrant sun-yellow. The wing sections feature delicate, hand-applied lines that combine the insect's natural texture with artistic abstraction.

Historical Relevance
Louis Sicard (1871–1946) was the first ceramic artist to immortalize the cicada as a ceramic object in 1895. This piece bears the prestigious signature of the House of Sicard and represents the workshop's heyday in the mid-20th century. In refined French interior design, the cicada is considered a "porte-bonheur" (lucky charm), symbolizing the warmth and joie de vivre of the South.

Condition and Provenance

The object is in exceptionally good condition for its age. The glaze has an excellent sheen, and the colors are vibrant and untarnished. The signature on the reverse is clearly legible and authenticates the piece as an original Sicard faience.

Technical Details

• Design & Production: Louis Sicard, Aubagne (France)

• Material: High-gloss enameled faience
• Dimensions: Height: 18 cm | Width: 9 cm | Depth: 6 cm
• Style: Provençal Folk Art / Mid-Century Modern
• Signature: Handwritten workshop mark "L. Sicard" on the revision side

• Mounting: Integrated device for flush wall mounting

The bottle shown is for size comparison only and is not included.

Weight: 216 g This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution See less