Fourmaintraux Desvres jug with a dragon handle and a hunting scene

This hand-painted earthenware (faience) is a rare and beautiful jug by the French ceramicist Gabriel Fourmaintraux, originating from the faience factory of Desvres. The style of this jug is a blend of Renaissance and Rouen styles, with dragons or mythical creatures accentuating the exuberance and shape of the handle. This style was very popular in France and Belgium in the mid-20th century, and together with the painted hunting scene, such jugs were produced in Desvres, France, between 1950-1960. The material is glazed earthenware/ceramics and hand-painted. Design: The jug has a bulbous base with a painted hunting scene of a horse rider. The neck of the jug tapers with a wavy rim and is adorned with detailed, leaf-shaped motifs and mythical creatures/dragons in beautiful deep colours such as green, yellow, and brown. The jug features a uniquely shaped handle, and this, combined with the hunting scene instead of the more common "ship at sea, " makes it a collectible item for anyone who appreciates this style and artist. Condition: Similar jugs are often described as being in excellent overall condition, retaining their colours and shine, and I can only agree with them. Well studied, my conclusion is "Excellent Condition.".