Antique m.e.v. Limoges Blush Ivory Dragon Ewer – French Porcelain, C. 1891–1910

Details

Description

Elevate your collection with this exceptional antique French hard-paste porcelain ewer, crafted by the historic Manufacture de l'Étoile de Val … Read more Elevate your collection with this exceptional antique French hard-paste porcelain ewer, crafted by the historic Manufacture de l'Étoile de Val d'Or (M.E.V.) during the late Victorian and early Art Nouveau transition (c. 1891–1910).

While beautifully capturing the iconic, biomorphic dragon-handled form popularized by Royal Worcester’s famous blush ivory ewers in late-19th century England, this piece elevates the aesthetic into the highly prized realm of fine French hard-paste porcelain.

The ewer features a soft, satin blush ivory ground, masterfully hand-painted with a delicate botanical motif of wild thistles and sprawling foliage. Its defining architectural element is the high-relief, sculpted gilded dragon handle that gracefully grips the neck of the vessel, accented by heavy, radiant gold leaf trim along the asymmetrical split rim and base.

The base serves as a magnificent testament to its authenticity, proudly bearing the sharp, green factory underglaze mark of the M.E.V. furnace (depicting a small ewer profile) along with the hand-painted, gilded initials of the decorating studio artist. A scarce, cross-continental masterpiece of the Aesthetic Movement, this commanding 7 ½-inch ewer is an ideal styling piece for editorial mantles, curation shelves, or traditional tabletops.

Brand/Maker: M.E.V. Limoges (Manufacture de l'Étoile de Val d'Or)
Origin: Limoges, France
Era: Late Victorian / Early Art Nouveau (c. 1891–1910)
Material: Fine Hard-Paste Porcelain
Height: 7 1/2 Inches
Motif: Botanical Thistle & Foliage with heavy gold leaf accents
Handle Style: Ornate Sculpted Dragon / Mythical Serpent
Accents: Heavy Gold (Gilt) Trim and Handle

Excellent Antique Condition. This piece is free of chips, structural cracks, hairline fractures, repairs, or glaze crazing. The intricate spires, wings, and claws of the sculpted dragon handle remain entirely intact. The hand-painted botanical motifs remain crisp and vibrant. Shows minor, honest, and age-appropriate rubbing to the delicate gilt trim lines where the neck meets the body, entirely consistent with its 110+ year history and adding to its authentic antique patina. The factory underglaze stamp and artist signature initials on the base are perfectly legible and unrubbed

Shipping Included: Yes (Free Shipping)
Ships fully insured in premium, double-walled protective packaging to ensure safe transit of the delicate porcelain elements.

Care & Handling Instructions
To preserve the exquisite hand-painted artwork and delicate overglaze gold leaf for generations to come, please adhere to the following museum-grade care guidelines:

Cleaning: Never submerge this piece in water or use chemical dish soaps. Clean only by gently wiping the surface with a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth to remove dust.
Moisture Caution: Do not use liquid cleaners or wet wipes on the gilded areas, as moisture can break down the ancient overglaze binders over time.
Environment: Display out of direct, intense sunlight and away from high-traffic zones to prevent accidental bumping or scratching of the gold-leaf contours.

My safe shipping guarantee: I understand how precious and fragile authentic rare pieces can be. This piece will be meticulously wrapped in layers of professional-grade bubble wrap, placed inside a box, and securely double-boxed with premium packing cushions. I fully insure our rare and extremely fragile shipments at no extra cost to you and standard tracked shipping is included. However, for enhanced peace of mind and to ensure your package arrives securely, complimentary signature confirmation is available upon request. If you would like this option, please let me know right before or after you complete your purchase. Please do not hesitate to reach out should you require further information.

Return & Care Policy
Due to the delicate and irreplaceable nature of this fine porcelain piece, all sales are considered final. I take extraordinary care in our archival packaging to ensure your acquisition arrives in the pristine condition described. In the highly unlikely event that the item sustains damage during transit, please contact me within 48 hours of delivery with accompanying photographs so that I may promptly initiate an insurance claim and arrange a full resolution for you. Your satisfaction and peace of mind remain my highest priorities.

Free Shipping See less