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"Perfume Warmer w/ Bearded Chinese Figure", rare Art Deco Sculpture, Robj, Paris

About the Item

Both charming and sophisticated, this porcelain perfume warmer -- featuring a bearded Chinese man with a pointed hat and black robe at the top of a stepped platform -- was made by Robj, one of France's most prolific makers of fine figural pieces in the style we call Art Deco today. The figure is holding a bowl where perfume could be placed, and a bulb inside the figure would warm the perfume and accelerate its diffusion into the air. Robj was founded by Jean Born in 1908 ("Robj" is an anagram of his name), but after his death in 1922 the firm was led by Lucien Willemetz, who revolutionized the quality and reach of the firm's products. Willemetz commissioned pieces that were made by Sèvres, Villeroy et Boch, Michelaud Frères and others, but sold under the name of Robj. This example is rare; the figure's robe could be had in black, yellow or red. It is marked on the bottom.
  • Creator:
    ROBJ (Maker)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 8 in (20.32 cm)Width: 6.13 in (15.58 cm)Depth: 2 in (5.08 cm)
  • Style:
    Art Deco (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Porcelain,Glazed
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Circa 1920s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Overall excellent; some rubbing to glaze around rim of bowl. Original cord and on/off switch survive, but piece will need to be rewired.
  • Seller Location:
    Philadelphia, PA
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU865138466702
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