Physical Qualities
Porcelain, with glazes and enamel, 37 1/4 H x 13 3/4 Diam. in. (94.6 x 34.9 cm.)
Credit Line
Nelson and Juanita Greif Gutman Fund; and gift of Joseph A. Holtzman, New York
Object Number
2006.39
With his easily recognized leaf-and-flower motifs, Leonard Gebleux adopted the naturalism that inspired the Art Nouveau movement in the 1890s. The body of this monumental vase, one of a pair, is ornamented with layered plant motifs. Holly leaves are carved into the porcelain, delicate mauve oak leaves rest on the surface, and raised balls of mistletoe — suspended from bright blue lines suggesting sinuous ribbons — are rendered in thick, sensuous overglaze enamels. The majestic yet simple shape recalls the Asian roots of European porcelain while the elegant ribbons state the signature Art Nouveau whiplash line in a somewhat restrained form, reflecting a more conservative approach to Art Nouveau design after 1900. Gebleux’s evident skills eventually raised him to artistic director at Sèvres from 1920 to 1927.
The Baltimore Museum of Art by purchase, 2006; Jason Jacques, Inc., New York
Dorotheum, Vienna, November 24, 2004, lot 49
Inscribed: Signed, at foot, under the glaze, "LGebleux"
Markings: Date mark, inside of rim, "S 1902"
Manufacturer
Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres
1737–2000
Sèvres, France 1738-present
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