18th Century Repousse Decorated Copper Chaudron From France

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A beautiful example of a period Louis XVI chaudron, or cauldron, the copper has been decorated with a metalworking technique … Read more A beautiful example of a period Louis XVI chaudron, or cauldron, the copper has been decorated with a metalworking technique known as repousse, where low relief motifs are hammered from the reverse side. Many motifs from Louis XVI were inspired by ancient civilizations (Egypt, Rome, Greece, etc.), such as the mascarons and cartouches seen on the sides of this chaudron.

There are two distinct mythological scenes on opposite sides, set in between a pair of twisted loop handles emanating from the mouth of a heavily bearded mascaron with a tied bow in his hair. One image depicts Pegasus rearing up as a man with a sword on his back reaches up to control him. On the opposite side is a medallion of the goddess Artemis, representing the moon with a crescent tiara and the hunt with her dog, stag, and spear. Both images are surrounded by an oval border of roundels set within a shield filled with texturing, flowers, scrolls, and lozenges.

The chaudron has a thinly rolled rim embellished with spiral fluting and a gadrooned body that alternates between raised and recessed. All the recessed lobes are festooned with a foliate margent that trails down to an attenuated leaf that encircles the bottom of the chaudron. The copper has a nice patina, but still retains much of the brightness that makes copper pieces attractive decorative accessories. A perfect addition for any kitchen or bar area as a unique wine cooler. See less