19th Century Antique French Opaline Glass Vase attributed to Jean-François Robert for Baccarat

Details

Description

A collectible 19th-century French Napoleon III-period opaline glass vase, standing at an impressive 40 cm (approx. 15.75 inches) in height. … Read more A collectible 19th-century French Napoleon III-period opaline glass vase, standing at an impressive 40 cm (approx. 15.75 inches) in height. This exquisite hand-blown piece features a milky white demi-cristal body showcasing a rare combination of fine botanical illustration and historical figural portraiture.

The lower third of the vase is enveloped in vibrant, masterfully executed blue and white morning glories, winding green vines, and chartreuse foliage—a signature motif heavily popularized by the celebrated porcelain and glass painter Jean-François Robert. Rising from the floral border is a meticulously hand-painted central figure depicting a gentleman in traditional 18th-century European winter attire, clad in a green and white hooded coat, tricorn hat, and boots while holding a staff.

Signatures & Authenticity
True to elite mid-19th-century French production, the hand-blown white glass blank was manufactured without a factory stamp, a standard practice for prestigious houses of this era like Baccarat and Saint-Louis (who did not introduce acid-etched marks until the 20th century). However, nestled delicately within the graphite-gray under-paint beneath the foliage is a rare, handwritten cursive artist signature (attributed to a Parisian studio master such as Paret or Maret), used historically to log piece-rate production in independent decorating ateliers.

The underside features a smooth, unblemished surface with remnants of old mounting material, confirming its authentic hand-blown heritage and indicating it may have originally sat in an ormolu (gilt-bronze) mount or served as a luxury lamp base.

Dimensions
• Height: 40 cm (15.75")
• Materials: Opaline Glass, Enamel, Gilt
• Place of Origin: France
• Period: Mid-19th Century (c. 1850–1870)

Condition
Excellent antique condition. The hand-painted enameling remains remarkably crisp and vibrant with minimal wear. The top and base rims retain their delicate gold gilt accent lines. No chips, cracks, or structural repairs to the glass. Some rubbing to the gold gilt. Minor historic plaster/mastic residue on the absolute bottom base consistent with age and prior mounting. See less