Ferdinand BARBEDIENNE (1810-1892) Pair of planters... Lot 40

Ferdinand BARBEDIENNE (1810-1892) Pair of planters with finely chased gilt bronze mounts. Lateral openwork handles in the archaic style, the feet in the shape of elephant heads. Polychrome cloisonné enamel decoration with oriental motifs. Signed "Ferdinand Barbedienne". Circa 1875-1885. H : 44 cm / L : 32 cm This pair of Japanese-style planters, a testament to the creativity of the decorative arts during the Second Empire, illustrates the renewed interest in the Orient and the taste for the exotic that prevailed during this period. The elegant combination of cloisonné enamel and gilded bronze found on these pieces is typical of the production of Ferdinand Barbedienne, one of the most renowned manufacturers of the second half of the 19th century, who drew his inspiration directly from the designs of Edouard Lièvre (1828-1886). He created original bronzes for furniture and decoration, designed in his workshops. He enjoyed many successes: he won medals at the International Exhibitions in London (1851) and Paris (1855), designed the furnishings for the Hôtel de Ville de Paris (1850) and supplied the furnishing bronzes for Prince Napoleon's Pompeian home.