{"title":"French Porcelain","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWhy French Porcelain Continues to Captivate\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrench porcelain has long been associated with refinement, invention and decorative ambition. Whether a piece was made for the table, the mantel or the cabinet, the category rewards attention to material, glaze, painting and form. Within M.S. Rau's \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/porcelain\"\u003ePorcelain\u003c\/a\u003e selection, French porcelain is especially appealing to collectors who value both artistry and historical context.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe field is broad enough to include restrained neoclassical wares, richly painted cabinet objects and sculptural decorative forms. What unites the best examples is not simply national origin, but a high level of finish and a clear understanding of how decoration should relate to shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMaterials, Decoration and Surface\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eCollectors often begin with the porcelain body, glaze and painting quality. French porcelain can vary by period and workshop, but the most successful pieces usually show confidence in both structure and ornament. Color should feel integrated, gilding should support rather than obscure the form and painted decoration should have intention rather than mere abundance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSurface condition also matters greatly. Rubbing to gilding, restoration, small edge losses and repairs are not unusual in antique porcelain, but they should be evaluated in context. A beautifully designed object may remain desirable even with discreet restoration, while a heavily compromised piece can lose much of its appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat Collectors Look For\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eCollectors often focus on elegance of profile, precision of decoration and the relationship between utility and display. French porcelain can be intimate or theatrical, practical or purely ornamental, and that range is part of what makes it so collectible. Marks can help establish origin and date, but visual quality remains essential.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe category also sits comfortably beside other decorative arts. Those building a layered interior may naturally connect French porcelain with pieces from M.S. Rau's \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/antiques\"\u003eAntiques Collection\u003c\/a\u003e, especially silver, mirrors and objets d'art.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDisplaying and Caring for Porcelain\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003ePorcelain benefits from stable display conditions, careful handling and thoughtful placement. Light can enhance painted detail and glaze, but collectors should avoid unnecessarily risky positions where knocks are likely. Plates, vases, mounted wares and figural objects all ask for slightly different display strategies.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCare is generally conservative. Gentle dusting and secure mounting are preferable to frequent movement, and restorations should be disclosed and understood rather than ignored. The best collecting decisions usually combine beauty with a realistic view of condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrench Porcelain at M.S. Rau\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eM.S. Rau selects French porcelain with an emphasis on artistry, decorative presence and condition. Our specialists consider not only age and origin but also whether a piece succeeds visually, whether its decoration is sensitively executed and whether it retains the qualities collectors value most.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor collectors drawn to French decorative arts, porcelain offers a particularly rich category because it bridges painting, sculpture and design. The strongest examples feel complete and convincing from every angle, whether displayed singly or within a larger collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat is French porcelain known for?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrench porcelain is known for refined forms, sophisticated painted decoration, gilding and a long tradition of decorative innovation. Different workshops and periods vary widely, but the category as a whole is closely associated with elegance and finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eHow important are marks on porcelain?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eMarks can be very useful for establishing workshop, date and attribution, though they are not the only factor. Collectors also weigh quality of modeling, glaze, painting and condition when judging a piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCan restored porcelain still be collectible?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. Restoration is common in antique porcelain, and a well-restored object may still be highly desirable if the design, rarity and overall presentation remain strong. The nature and extent of the repair should simply be understood clearly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat kinds of objects fall under French porcelain?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe category includes tablewares, vases, plaques, garnitures, mounted objects, figural works and many other forms. Part of the appeal lies in how varied the field can be while still maintaining a recognizable level of decorative sophistication.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eHow should porcelain be displayed safely?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eCollectors should place porcelain where it is stable, well supported and protected from accidental impact. Stands, cabinets and secure shelf placement are often preferable to crowded arrangements.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy does French porcelain appeal to decorative arts collectors?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause it combines technical skill with visual richness. French porcelain often works beautifully alongside silver, glass and furniture, which makes it especially versatile in broader collections and interiors.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"meissen-porcelain-revelry-groups","title":"Meissen Porcelain Revelry Groups","description":"This charming pair of Meissen porcelain figures celebrates the essence of Revelry. First modeled by the renowned Johann Joachim Kändler on bases by Peter Reinicke, circa 1767, these joyous groups depict musicians making merry by playing the french horn, flute, guitar and hurdy-gurdy, and gardeners carrying flowers in baskets and aprons. Two almost identical groups are featured in \u003cem\u003eMeissen: Collector’s Catalogue\u003c\/em\u003e by Laurence Mitchell. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Figures by Kändler were especially popular and served as table decorations at courtly banquets. He took the reigns of the Meissen factory in 1733 and over the following 40 years created more than 900 models, many of which were considered the most important and beautiful ever produced. Many of his designs were so timeless and classic that they continued to be used well into the 19th century. Kändler was highly regarded especially for his allegorical representations and he was certainly at his best when designing the Four Continents. These spectacular figures are a perfect example of the superior wares he produced at Meissen. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Feature blue crossed swords mark \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1890 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 10 1\/4” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239087874183,"sku":"29-6531","price":18500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-6531_1_aa1a037c-824a-4cf8-99f8-6d85e51eca07.png?v=1712738652"},{"product_id":"french-porcelain-veilleuse-1","title":"French Porcelain Veilleuse","description":"A fine French hand-painted porcelain and gilt decorated veilleuse depicting a classical romantic scene. Excellent condition. \n\nCirca 1840 \n\n 11 1\/4” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43809265352839,"sku":"28-879","price":985.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/28-879_1.png?v=1770319595"},{"product_id":"st-cecilia-veilleuse","title":"St. Cecilia Veilleuse","description":"A lovely figural veilleuse depicting St. Cecilia, the early Christian virgin martyr and the patroness of church music. A similar piece is pictured in Harold Newman's Veilleuses, A Collector's Guide on page 147 and is part of the French collection belonging to Mlle. Gisèle Poulnais. Excellent condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 15” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43809264599175,"sku":"28-4805","price":985.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/28-4805_1_766d2ca5-47b5-445d-9b3c-7d52f912c309.png?v=1770319573"},{"product_id":"napoleon-iii-porcelain-basket","title":"Napoleon III Porcelain Basket","description":"A delightful French basket mounted in doré bronze which provides the framework for the six panels veneered in mother-of-pearl and set with French porcelain plaques. Interior lined in silk. Circa 1870.","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874594947207,"sku":"28-7825","price":2985.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/28-7825_1_d4470396-6c82-44ca-a971-1665b97189ea.png?v=1772355894"},{"product_id":"pair-of-old-paris-platinum-vases","title":"Pair of Old Paris Platinum Vases","description":"An important pair of Old Paris platinum-ground and gilt-trimmed porcelain vases with classical figures on each of the panels. Excellent condition.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1880\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n9” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239059136647,"sku":"28-299","price":6900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/28-299_1_61204f36-e9ca-4425-b274-68158d478df7.png?v=1712739435"},{"product_id":"old-paris-porcelain-rococo-inkstand","title":"Old Paris Porcelain Rococo Inkstand","description":"A large Old Paris inkstand in the rococo style with floral and gilt decoration. Excellent condition. \n\nCirca 1850 \n\n13 1\/2” wide x 5” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239056416903,"sku":"27-4844","price":985.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/27-4844_1_9f4f15ff-8fa5-4e66-b3d4-bed294116d7d.png?v=1712739437"},{"product_id":"limoges-enamel-vase","title":"Limoges Enamel Vase","description":"A lovely Limoges enamel vase featuring a handsome gentleman in richly appointed period costume. Excellent condition. Circa 1900.","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239056613511,"sku":"27-9960","price":6450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/27-9960_1_8f047041-7e7f-477a-b7fb-033baca2dc3f.png?v=1712739405"},{"product_id":"sevres-palace-porcelain-urns","title":"Sèvres Palace Porcelain Urns","description":"These bronze-mounted Sèvres porcelain urns are monumental in both size and quality and feature the renowned manufactory’s signature deep cobalt blue glaze. Sèvres urns were made in various sizes and qualities over the years, with the finest examples dating from between 1850 and 1880. Yet even among the best examples, these urns stand apart. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e First, the great majority of Sèvres urns were fitted with minimum “stock” bronze. Very few boasted the handcrafted mercury-gilded bronze mounts such as those featured here. Additionally, most urns created were approximately one quarter to half the size of these monumental beauties. It is assumed by most experts that the smaller examples were sold in retail establishments, while very rare large pieces were made only for special commissions for an elite clientele, earning them the moniker “palace urns.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Designed in the Rococo style, the baluster-form urns feature hand-painted panels depicting figures from Greek mythology, including Neptune, the god of the sea, with his wife Amphitrite. Remarkably rendered landscapes of Greek ruins adorn the reverse. The urns’ exceptional artistry extends to their bronze ormolu mounts, on which putti support scrolling branches at the handles. Resting atop neoclassical pillars, these urns embody the singular aesthetic of Sèvres prized porcelain. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The vases bear the signature \"A. Nicolas\" within each painted scene. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1860 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 48 1\/4” high \n  ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42315383537799,"sku":"30-1803","price":285000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-1803_1_82709cdc-2ba7-4341-a4aa-b9d0bb7dcb39.png?v=1738881408"},{"product_id":"french-porcelain-perfume-bottle","title":"French Porcelain Perfume Bottle","description":"A bird in flight adorns this charming perfume bottle attributed to famed French porcelain maker Jacob Petit. It is exemplary of the opulent artistry for which Petit is renowned, from its vibrant green ground to its Rococo-style ormolu base. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1835 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 4 3\/4” wide x 3 3\/4\" deep x 6 1\/2” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873673117831,"sku":"31-1708","price":3450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1708_1_fdc845cd-9113-4a7c-b0bf-c8d1d98c4dd4.png?v=1770667505"},{"product_id":"french-porcelain-potpourri-pots","title":"French Porcelain Potpourri Pots","description":"Pairs of adorable children adorn these charming potpourri pots attributed to famed French porcelain maker Jacob Petit, one of the finest porcelain artists of the 19th century. The vessels are topped by a pierced lid, which allows the scent of the perfume or potpourri within to disperse throughout the room. It is exemplary of the opulent artistry for which Petit is renowned, from its brilliant green ground to its Rococo-style gilt ornamentation. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1835 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 5 1\/2” square x 7 1\/2” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873665450119,"sku":"31-1703","price":5450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1703_1_35635862-9882-4322-bc39-bcea9234d0f8.png?v=1770667436"},{"product_id":"louis-xv-style-bleu-celeste-vase","title":"Louis XV Style Bleu Céleste Vase","description":"Drawing from the luxury of Sèvres porcelain and Louis XV's famed bleu céleste service from Versailles, this elegant French porcelain vase features the trademark shade of blue and medallions revealing scenes of flora and fauna, including pheasants and swans. Adorned with gilt accents on the lip and body of the octagonal vase, the creation is mounted upon four ormolu winged women bowing with downturned faces. The voluminous flourishes of naturalistic motifs are exemplary of the Louis XV era’s organic stylings.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCirca 1860\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e12 1\/2\" high x 8\" diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40457732489351,"sku":"31-6904","price":12850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/products\/31-6904_1.png?v=1681504637"},{"product_id":"sevres-porcelain-and-bronze-box","title":"Sèvres Porcelain and Bronze Box","description":"Seven resplendent Sèvres porcelain plaques surround this magnificent doré bronze box. The bright floral motif on the plaques perfectly matches the intricate chased, engraved and applied bronze. Demand for porcelain-mounted objet d’art was successfully met by Sèvres substantial team of gifted porcelain artisans, particularly flower painters, whose remarkably intricate and elegant floral motifs were the most often requested to adorn these brilliant objects. Today, the greatest collections of Sèvres porcelain furniture are held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, the Wallace Collection in London and the famed Louvre in Paris. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 6 1\/4\" wide x 3 1\/2\" deep x 4 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42352836214919,"sku":"31-8404","price":5450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8404_1.png?v=1741268207"},{"product_id":"sevres-rulers-of-france-portrait-medallions","title":"Sèvres Rulers of France Portrait Medallions","description":"This exceptionally rare set of sixteen Sèvres portrait medallions captures the illustrious history of one of the world’s most powerful monarchies—the French Crown. Exquisitely crafted by the illustrious Sèvres Manufactory, these impeccably preserved medallions stand as a remarkable testament to France’s unparalleled mastery of the decorative arts. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Crafted in the early 19th century, these medallions immortalize the most important French rulers and nobility in classic Sèvres bisque porcelain. Beginning with King François I of the 16th century, the collection features lifelike depictions of iconic figures including Louis XIV, Marie Antoinette and Napoleon Bonaparte, all set against a vibrant solid blue background. Interestingly, the set also portrays the English 1st Duke of Wellington, who was the de facto ruler after the fall of Napoleon. Each of the portraits epitomizes the artistry and precision of the world-renowned Sèvres Manufactory. See the full list of leaders represented in this set below. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Sèvres Manufactory became the leading porcelain maker in Europe in the mid-18th century, and they were given the official French royal appointment in 1759. For more than 250 years, Sèvres has produced important commissions and highly sought-after bisque wares. Commemorative portrait medallions such as these were popular throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, evoking the grandeur of France’s greatest leaders through the ages. Today, examples of these same medallions are represented in major museum collections worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum, though none hold as comprehensive a group as the present collection. These sixteen medallions were united as part of the esteemed Twinight Collection, one of the world’s largest and most important private collections of European porcelain. To see such a monumental group of these Sèvres medallions so beautifully preserved is a true rarity.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1818 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Inscribed with Sèvres marks for Alexandre Brachard and Jean-Jacques Oger \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each frame: 30\" high x 17 1\/4\" wide x 2 1\/2\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Twinight Collection, New York\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Rulers depicted in the medallions:\u003cbr\u003e Francois I (1515–47)\u003cbr\u003e Henri IV (1589-1610)\u003cbr\u003e Louis XIV (1643-1715)\u003cbr\u003e Louis XV (1715-74)\u003cbr\u003e Louis XVI (1774-92)\u003cbr\u003e Marie Antoinette (1774-92)\u003cbr\u003e Dauphin Louis Joseph (1781-89)\u003cbr\u003e Dauphin Louis Charles (1785-95)\u003cbr\u003e Louis XVIII (1795-1824)\u003cbr\u003e Marie Josephine de Savoie (1795-1810)\u003cbr\u003e Napoleon I (1804-1814, 1815)\u003cbr\u003e Empress Josephine (1804-10)\u003cbr\u003e Empress Marie Louise (1810-14)\u003cbr\u003e Duke of Berry (1778-1820)\u003cbr\u003e Duchess of Berry (1816-20)\u003cbr\u003e 1st Duke of Wellington (1828-34)","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42499340763271,"sku":"31-9662","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-9662_1_0bb64e66-7c75-4d7f-8f14-7a89cf12cc59.png?v=1743858304"},{"product_id":"sevres-porcelain-and-dore-bronze-vases","title":"Sèvres Porcelain and Doré Bronze Vases","description":"Pair of Porcelain and Doré Bronze Vases\u003cbr\u003e Sèvres\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1845 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e With porcelain vessels in the iconic Sèvres cobalt blue, encased in lavish doré bronze armatures, this pair of Louis XVI-style urns epitomizes the masterful craftsmanship and refined beauty of the famed porcelain manufactory. Each urn is adorned with three finely chased caryatid figures joined by floral garlands, resting upon a reticulated circular gilt bronze base. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Since its founding in the 18th century, the Sèvres porcelain manufactory has been synonymous with the finest porcelain wares. Established under the patronage of Louis XV and Madame de Pompadour, the firm quickly became the official royal porcelain producer. Throughout the 19th century, Sèvres expanded its repertoire, designing distinct vase forms that ranged from neoclassical grandeur to Gothic delicacy. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e These exceptional urns pay homage to Pierre Gouthière, one of the most renowned bronze artists of the preceding century. Appointed gilder to King Louis XV in 1767, Gouthière revolutionized metalwork, pioneering a gilding technique that achieved an exquisite matte finish. Similar caryatid figures appear on vases once owned by the Duke of Talleyrand, while similar mermaid motifs—prevalent in Gouthière’s work—can be found on a serpentine marble vase in the Louvre. These vases embody the grandeur of Louis XVI-style ornamentation, blending rich materials with impeccable detail. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each: 19 3\/4\" high x 13\" diameter \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Marked under bronze Sèvres Louis Philippe 1845","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43290836172935,"sku":"32-0737","price":78500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-0737_1.png?v=1760030707"},{"product_id":"sevres-medicis-vases-commissioned-by-napoleon-for-talleyrand","title":"Sèvres Médicis Vases Commissioned by Napoléon for Talleyrand","description":"Pair of Médicis Vases Commissioned by Napoléon for Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord\u003cbr\u003e Sèvres\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1806 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Commissioned by Emperor Napoléon I and executed by the world-renowned Sèvres manufactory, this extraordinary pair of vases was presented to Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, Prince of Benevento—one of history’s most gifted diplomats whose influence spanned successive French regimes. Their provenance links two of the most formidable figures of the early 19th century, embodying the confluence of imperial ambition and refined taste that defined the First Empire. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e To Napoleon, who valued merit and brilliance above all, Talleyrand’s counsel was indispensable in shaping the Empire. The diplomat had served Louis XVI, survived the Revolution, advised Napoleon with strategic brilliance, remained essential under Louis XVIII and later guided France through the reign of Louis-Philippe. These vases were presented to the diplomat by the Emperor on the occasion of the marriage of Stéphanie Louise Adrienne de Beauharnais to Karl Ludwig Friedrich, Prince of Baden. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Taking the celebrated Médicis form, the vases feature a deep \u003cem\u003ebeau bleu\u003c\/em\u003e ground enriched with gilt bronze-mounted Jupiter heads and sumptuous gilding throughout by Charles-Marie-Pierre Boitel. Rather than imperial insignia, the hand-painted decoration by Gilbert Drouet is composed of garlands of purple bellflowers—symbols of constancy and gratitude—designed with scientific precision by Alexandre Brongniart père, a botanist turned painter at Sèvres. Each flower’s naturalistic rendering reflects both Brongniart’s rare technical mastery and the Emperor’s calculated symbolism: a visual tribute to Talleyrand’s brilliance, loyalty and indispensability. Notably, Brongniart’s original preparatory drawing for this floral motif is preserved in the Sèvres archives. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The manufactory’s official records confirm that these vases were commissioned by Napoléon specifically for Talleyrand at a cost of 1,200 francs—an extraordinary sum equivalent to four years of a laborer’s wages. Few commissions of this magnitude were ever produced. Closely related examples include a Médicis vase with floral decoration ordered by Napoléon for Ferdinand III of Habsburg-Lorraine, now in the Uffizi Gallery, and a pair of lilac-ground floral vases created for Empress Marie-Louise, which remain at Compiègne. Displayed at the Palais Vivienne among one of the finest Napoleonic collections ever assembled, this pair represents an unparalleled convergence of imperial history, diplomacy, and the pinnacle of French porcelain artistry. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Red stenciled Manufacture Impériale de Sèvres marks with date symbol for Revolutionary Year 14, and BT gilder’s mark for Boitel in gilding. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each on bases: 22 3\/8\" high x 12 1\/4\" diameter \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e C. Leprince, \u003cem\u003eNapoléon 1er et La Manufacture de Sèvres: l’Art de la Porcelaine au Service de l’Empire\u003c\/em\u003e, Paris, 2016, p. 184, no. 5. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, Prince of Benevento, Paris\u003cbr\u003e Private collection, Paris\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43786801905799,"sku":"32-1327","price":238500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1327_1_62c76cdb-56af-4b32-9618-c4d3f99a26ca.png?v=1769780437"}],"url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/french-porcelain.oembed","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}