Antique French Desvres Faience Candlestick, Attributed to Fourmaintraux, Circa 1880–1900

Details

Description

A beautifully decorated antique French faience candlestick from Desvres, northern France, attributed to the Fourmaintraux workshop and dating to the … Read more A beautifully decorated antique French faience candlestick from Desvres, northern France, attributed to the Fourmaintraux workshop and dating to the late 19th century.

Its elegant baluster silhouette is finished in glossy ivory-white glaze, richly decorated with hand-painted flowers, curling foliage and ornamental borders in cobalt blue, mustard yellow, warm rust red and fresh green.
Delicate floral sprays cascade along the gracefully shaped stem, while intricate cobalt-blue bands, yellow scrollwork and pendant blossoms create a charming decorative fringe. The broad circular base is adorned with flowering branches and an elaborate blue border, beautifully complementing the flared candle cup above.

The decoration draws inspiration from traditional Rouen-style faience, particularly the ornamental lambrequin patterns that imitate the elaborate fringes and embroidery of historic textiles.
Desvres became an important centre of French decorative pottery, with its workshops preserving and interpreting historic ceramic traditions. This candlestick beautifully reflects that heritage, combining elegant proportions, vibrant colour and intricate hand-painted ornament.

A wonderfully decorative piece of French craftsmanship, equally attractive displayed individually on a mantelpiece, sideboard or dining table.

Details
Origin: Desvres, France
Maker: Attributed to Fourmaintraux Frères / Fourmaintraux workshop
Period: Late 19th century, circa 1880–1900
Material: Hand-painted tin-glazed earthenware (faience)
Style: Traditional French, Rouen-inspired
Decoration: Polychrome floral motifs and lambrequin borders
Marks: Painted monogram appearing to read “FF”, with an additional number beneath the base

Measurements — Approximate
Height: 9.06 inches (23 cm)
Top diameter: 2.76 inches (7 cm)
Base diameter: 4.92 inches (12.5 cm)

Condition
Very good antique condition overall, with light wear consistent with age and use. The colours remain beautifully vibrant, and the glossy glaze enhances the intricate hand-painted decoration. See less