cup on pedestal in fine earthenware – Manufacture de Grigny circa 1830–1860

A pedestal bowl, an antique of rare elegance, a precious witness to the early French pottery of the 19th century. This pedestal features a magnificent deep green decoration with romantic scenes: floral rococo cartouches, lakeside landscapes, sailing boats, village architecture, and small bouquets printed in remarkably fine dotted lines. The decoration is typical of the early decades of the 19th century, when romantic imagery blended with fine French earthenware. The piece bears a faded stamp but is perfectly attributable to the Decean pottery of Grigny (Rhône), active from 1829 to 1868. Its crowned coat of arms – sometimes accompanied by a workshop letter like your “L” – is a characteristic mark of the house's productions. Founded in 1829, the Grigny pottery was one of the very first in France to master the “terre de feu” firing in coal kilns, a technically demanding but revolutionary process for the time. Bronze medal in 1834, silver in 1839, and then a distinction at the 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris: pieces from this period are now rare and highly sought after. In beautiful antique condition, with the expected patina of time for a piece nearly two centuries old: usage cracks, small marks without impact. A harmonious, solid, and perfectly decorative ensemble. Diameter 24 cm, height 12 cm, depth 4 cm. An exceptional piece, perfect for a decor inspired by curatorial vintage trends where each object tells a story.