Style Japonism, Chinoiserie / Ref.16022

Ferdinand BARBEDIENNE – Japonist cachepot in gilt bronze and cloisonné enamel

This skillful blend of Chinese art and French craftsmanship is attributed to Ferdinand Barbedienne. Our cachepot features a polychrome decoration of peonies and stylized flowers, wild birds, and insects in cloisonné enamel against a turquoise background. On one side, a pair of wild birds frolic, while on the other, butterflies flutter across the azure ground. The copper network of the cloisonné enamels displays geometric patterns reminiscent of certain Chinese vases from the Jiaqing period (1796-1820). A common practice in French decorative arts during the second half of the 19th century, the Chinese cachepot is mounted on a modern bronze base inspired by Far Eastern designs. Given the exceptional and original bronze work, this piece can be attributed to Ferdinand Barbedienne. The base is formed by three finely chiseled elephant heads adorned with a pearl diadem. Greek key motifs unfold along the base, while a tortoise appears between each elephant head. On either side of the cachepot, lion heads grasp movable handles. The manes of these menacing masks with their mischievous noses form finely chiseled scrolls. On the shoulder of the cachepot, four grimacing faces in gilt bronze punctuate the polychrome enamel floral decorations. The rim is adorned with a repeating Far Eastern motif reminiscent of the decoration found on Buddhist temple cornices.