Pineapple Ice Bucket attributed to Maison Jansen, France, 1960s

Details

Description

​​masterpiece of decorative tableware, this ice bucket adopts the iconic silhouette of the pineapple, a historical symbol of hospitality, prosperity, … Read more ​​masterpiece of decorative tableware, this ice bucket adopts the iconic silhouette of the pineapple, a historical symbol of hospitality, prosperity, and chic exoticism. Crafted here in a high-quality solid brass structure, it is distinguished by a striking two-tone geometric design with a strong visual impact.

Its powerful and highly graphic visual presence perfectly embodies the Hollywood Regency aesthetic of the 1960s and 70s. This golden age, driven by bold commissions from the international jet set, saw the greatest designers transcend bar accessories, transforming them into veritable interior sculptures—a stylistic approach fully faithful to this production.

The perfectly spherical body of the piece is entirely enlivened by a motif of engraved lozenges, whose proportions subtly evolve to follow the natural curve of the fruit:

• Rhythm and perspective: Dense patterns on the upper part elegantly widen towards the base to accentuate the volumes.

• Exquisite hand-chasing: The lines are deeply sculpted directly into the brass, revealing a goldsmith's work of great tactile sensitivity.

• Two-tone contrast: A contrasting gray patina skillfully highlights the grooves, giving this piece striking relief and a vibrant presence in the light.

This nuanced treatment and the virtuosity of the execution testify to exceptional craftsmanship, characteristic of the finest Parisian workshops of the period.

The highly realistic upper foliage crowns the object majestically thanks to a sophisticated design of three rows of overlapping and removable brass leaves.

The concealed assembly demonstrates the technical excellence inherent in the demanding standards of Maison Jansen: a threaded rod in tinted brass, integrated into the top leaf, passes through the crown to screw directly and invisibly into the lid.

• Purity of lines: No nuts or fastening systems are visible, preserving the absolute purity of the profile.

• Impeccable interior: The receptacle features an ideally domed base with a meticulous finish, without any visible welds, guaranteeing a perfect aesthetic seal.

• Quality of materials: The object is characterized by its significant density, an undeniable hallmark of the nobility and robustness of the metals used.

This piece is in excellent vintage condition. The brass has developed a superb, original golden patina, matured over time, which retains its full luster without detracting from the object's authenticity. The nuances of the two-tone patina are perfectly stabilized.

• Creator: Attributed to Maison Jansen (Paris)
• Period: Circa 1960–1970
• Country of origin: France
• Materials: Solid brass, engraved metal, two-tone patina
• Height: 26.5 cm
• Weight: 1.1 kg This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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