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Massive Platinum-Ground Paris Vases with Birds & Flowers, Signed Narcisse Vivien

$26,260
£19,499.41
€22,901.10
CA$36,534.99
A$40,904.62
CHF 21,447.63
MX$505,401.90
NOK 270,253.48
SEK 255,108.51
DKK 170,870.29
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About the Item

A rare and exquisitely painted pair of Paris porcelain vases, each signed by Narcisse Vivien, one of the most refined enamel decorators active in the Paris ateliers of the late 19th century. These vases stand as exceptional examples of Belle Époque porcelain artistry, distinguished not only by their masterful hand-painting but also by their unique platinum-toned ground—a highly uncommon and technically demanding finish that imbues each vessel with a lustrous, silvery sheen unlike the more typical cobalt, celeste, or ivory glazes favored in the period. Executed in cylindrical form with a subtly tapering profile, the vases are adorned with striking naturalistic scenes. One features a brilliant red cardinal poised amid white narcissus and cactus blooms, while the other showcases a vivid green parakeet perched among lush hibiscus and cherry blossoms. The birds are rendered with extraordinary lifelikeness—each feather minutely articulated, each floral petal delicately modeled in soft enamel tones that glow against the cool platinum field. Vivien’s signature, delicately inscribed within the painted panels, confirms his authorship and attests to the individualized, painter-led production for which Paris porcelain was renowned. Rather than relying on bronze ormolu mounts, these vases feature fully integrated porcelain handles, exquisitely modeled and gilded in two-tone 24-karat gold, alternating between matte and burnished finishes. The contrast between the velvety and reflective gilding emphasizes the sculptural finesse of the handles and accent elements, from the classical garland motifs to the ring drop adornments at the reverse. This rare use of entirely gilded porcelain, rather than applied bronze, reflects a high level of technical achievement and allows the metallic surfaces to harmonize with the platinum ground rather than interrupt it—an effect that enhances the visual unity and sophistication of the overall design. Signed: N. Vivien (on both vases) Origin: Paris, France Date: Circa 1870–1890 Materials: Hard-paste porcelain with platinum ground, polychrome enamel, and two-tone matte and burnished 24k gold Dimensions: 14.5" high, Diameter of top: 6.5" Style: Belle Époque / Naturalist / Louis XVI Revival
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 14.5 in (36.83 cm)Width: 7.5 in (19.05 cm)Depth: 6.5 in (16.51 cm)
  • Style:
    Louis XVI (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Porcelain,Enameled,Gilt,Hand-Painted
  • Place of Origin:
    France
  • Period:
    Late 19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1880-1890 Period
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    New York, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU919545398772

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