Midcentury French Hand Painted Wall Faience Lavabo Fountain from Moustiers

$975

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Decorate a wall with this elegant ceramic fountain on board from the south of France. Crafted in Moustiers circa 1960, the decorative three-piece set is complete with basin, reservoir with metal spout, and lid; the lavabo is attached to a carved walnut board. The faience basin, shaped as a shell, is hand painted with butterfly, and bird decor in the soft green, blue and mustard palette over a white background; it is further decorated with a grotesque playing the violin. The reservoir with similar decor is embellished with a cherub figure under the brass faucet. The fountain is in excellent condition with rich colors, and would be a charming addition to any room. The basin could also be used as a planter to hold flowers. The wash basin or lavabo was a typical piece found in French homes before running water was available. It consists normally of an ewer or container of some kind to pour water, and a bowl to catch the water as it falls off the hands. Moustiers faience earthenware, a tradition spanning centuries, is made in the charming Provençal village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. It became famous all-over the world thanks to its fine glazed earthenware produced in the 17th and 18th centuries. Recognizable by its distinctive floral designs, the craft is perpetuated today by a number of workshops in the village. Worth a visit: the faience museum in Moustiers Ste Marie, which contains remarkable pieces produced by 17th and 18th century master potters. Measures: 16″ W x 13″ D x 33″ H.

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