Pair 19th Century French Palissy-Style Barbotine Majolica Bird Jardinières

$3,600

About

Crafted in France circa 1890, this remarkable pair of antique majolica jardinières exemplifies the naturalistic barbotine pottery produced in northern France during the late 19th century. Each sculptural planter is richly modeled in high relief with a lively woodland composition featuring a bird and nest, snake, frog, tree trunk, reeds, leaves, and other vegetation.

The hand-painted decoration combines deep greens, earthy browns, ochre, and yellow with softly contrasting peach-pink interiors. Their highly detailed surfaces and realistic treatment of flora and fauna reflect the enduring influence of Renaissance potter Bernard Palissy and the revival of his celebrated rustiques figulines during the 19th century.

The jardinières are attributed to Joseph L’Hermine-Declercq of Orchies, an important pottery center in northern France. A closely related example is illustrated on page 3 of Les Barbotines by Pierre Faveton, published by Massin Éditeur. This documented comparison supports their identification within the French naturalistic barbotine tradition, though no visible factory marks are present.

The matching antique cache pots are in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, with richly colored glazes and beautifully preserved sculptural details. They would make striking centerpieces on a dining table, console, or large mantel.

Dimensions (each): 13″ W x 10″ D x 7.25″ H

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