William-Adolphe Bouguereau Cut Glass Pitcher

This exquisite engraved and cut glass pitcher bears frolicking figures from the oeuvre of the undisputed master of Academic art, William-Adolphe Bouguereau. The American Brilliant Period cut glass artisans pushed the boundaries of traditional glassmaking techniques, leading to a remarkable revolution in the world of glassware. While many craftsmen excelled in this art form, very few could expertly reproduce the intricate designs of the great fine artists who preceded them. Encountering a creation such as this with a perfectly rendered design after the renowned Academic artist William-Adolphe Bouguereau is exceptionally rare.

The elegant hand-engraved pitcher, adorned with exquisitely cut-glass handles, showcases a delightful frosted glass design of neoclassical nymphs and winged putti taken from Bouguereau’s masterpiece Le Guêpier (The Wasp's Nest), painted in 1892. The glass artisan added a bounty of lush foliage to frame the scene, while the pitcher's scalloped lip and cut-glass base contribute to its captivating visual appeal.

William-Adolphe Bouguereau, the undisputed master of Academic art, strictly adhered to traditional artistic standards in his color harmonies, composition, drawing and expression. His work epitomizes the ideals of French Academic painting like few others, earning him numerous accolades, medals from the Salon and Exposition Universelles, and recognition as a leading member of the Institute of France and President of the Society of Painters, Sculptors, and Engravers. His influence was so profound that the Salon of the Third Republic became informally known as "Le Salon Bouguereau." This cut-glass pitcher, replicating one of his highly acclaimed paintings, offers a unique and rare medium to honor his exceptional artistry.

Circa 1900

12“ high x 6” diameter