Pair 20th C Frames French Lithographs of Porcelain Vases

Details

Description

This handsome matched pair of decorative lithographs depicts two elaborately ornamented covered porcelain vessels, presented in the refined manner of … Read more This handsome matched pair of decorative lithographs depicts two elaborately ornamented covered porcelain vessels, presented in the refined manner of nineteenth-century decorative-arts illustrations. Each print focuses upon an individual ceramic form, carefully rendered to emphasize its sculptural shape, colorful floral decoration, scrolling handles, finial, and ornamental feet. Together, the two works have the appearance of plates taken from an important historical survey or collection of European porcelain.

The left lithograph is identified with Sceaux, the celebrated French porcelain and faience tradition, and depicts a beautifully shaped covered vessel with a domed lid and distinctive arched handle. Its decoration combines delicate sprays of flowers with stronger bands of pink and red ornament, while the scrolling side handles and feet give the piece a wonderfully animated Rococo character.

The companion lithograph is identified with Niederwiller, another important name in French ceramic history. Its covered vessel is broader and more architectural in form, richly decorated with colorful roses, smaller blossoms, green foliage, and elaborate pink scrolling handles. A sculptural foliate finial crowns the lid, completing its luxurious eighteenth-century appearance.

Both images are presented against restrained neutral backgrounds, allowing the soft pinks, greens, blues, and reds of the porcelain decoration to stand out beautifully. Their traditional presentation is enhanced by wide neutral mats with fine reddish-pink inner borders.

Particularly attractive are the substantial black frames, designed with a deeply molded, almost ebonized appearance and punctuated at regular intervals by striking gilt crossed-ribbon or X-form ornaments. The combination of black and gold gives the pair a sophisticated neoclassical character while providing a dramatic contrast to the delicate pastel colors of the lithographs.

Displayed together, these prints would be exceptionally attractive in a dining room, living room, library, entrance hall, or above a console or commode. They would work especially well in a traditional French, English, neoclassical, or eclectic interior. Their symmetry makes them ideal for hanging side by side, while their classical presentation and charming porcelain subjects provide color and historical interest without overwhelming a room. As a coordinated pair, they offer the polished, collected appearance of decorative works assembled for a sophisticated European interior.


Dimensions: 20.5 inches High x 17.5 inches wide x .75 inches deep See less