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Covered Jar with Atlantes

Attributed to Maison Alphonse Giroux

France, Circa 1880

An antique patinated bronze covered jar with gilded highlights, attributed to Maison Alphonse Giroux and crafted in Paris circa 1880, at the height of the Japonisme craze. A renowned Parisian destination for luxury objects since the early 19th century, Maison Giroux masterfully captured its clientele's passion for the arts of Japan, introduced to the public through the Universal Expositions of 1867 and 1878. Of ovoid form, the jar is richly adorned with relief decoration contrasting Night and Day. On the lid, symbolizing Night, feature a turtle, a crescent moon, and a dragon soaring amidst clouds. On the body, representing Day, are a rising sun, mountainous landscapes, and blossoming cherry branches. The lid is surmounted by a flamed finial. The piece rests upon three patinated bronze atlantes bearing the vase upon their shoulders. This fusion of Japanese iconography and Western-style sculpted figures is characteristic of the eclecticism of late 19th-century Parisian bronze makers, who drew freely from a wide array of artistic repertoires. Standing 47 cm high, this spectacular covered jar will find its place on a console table, a mantelpiece, or a low cabinet, where its intricate decoration can be admired in the round.

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Artist / Maker: Attributed to Maison Alphonse Giroux
Circa: 1880
Origin: France
Dimensions: Height : 18.5 in(47 cm)
Width : 9.8 in(25 cm)
Depth : 8.9 in(22.5 cm)
Technique / Materials: Gilt and patinated bronze