Pair of Opaline Glass Vases and Covers

Pair of Opaline Glass Vases and Covers – Works of Art

This exceptional pair of opaline glass vases and covers represents the refined artistry of nineteenth-century France, blending delicate form with vibrant ornamentation. Crafted during the height of the Napoléon III period, these decorative vases exemplify the elegance and innovation characteristic of French glasswork during the mid-1800s.

Origin: France
Date: Circa 1845
Material: White opaline glass, gilt decoration, ruby paste cabochons
Dimensions: Height 38 cm (15 ins)
Condition: Excellent, with bright gilding and minor age-related wear

In terms of design and execution, these opaline glass vases are closely allied with the celebrated works of French ateliers such as Baccarat and Saint-Louis, both of which were renowned for luxury glass production at the time. The rich white opaline body, adorned with brightly painted roses and gilt borders, reflects the exuberant decorative tastes seen in contemporaneous objets d’art held in European collections. Similar examples can be found in the collections of the Musée d’Orsay and the Victoria & Albert Museum, demonstrating the enduring appreciation for this style.

Notable Features:

• Exquisite hand-painted floral motifs framed by elegant gilded bands
• Tall, tapering lids culminating in clear glass ball finials, a design flourish frequently associated with opaline glass of this era
• Studded with striking ruby paste cabochons, adding a luxurious and tactile dimension to the pieces

The sinuous bulbous forms of these vases evoke the early stirrings of the Rococo Revival, while the symmetrical arrangement and fine detailing recall Neoclassical influences prevalent under the Napoléon III regime. Their relatively large scale enhances their visual impact, making them particularly desirable to collectors of nineteenth-century French glass.

For the discerning enthusiast or interior designer, this pair of opaline glass vases offers considerable value. Their rarity, superb condition, and vibrant enamel work make them suitable as stand-out display pieces, whether gracing a mantelpiece or forming the focal point of a curated collection. As vases, objets d’art, or conversation starters, they speak eloquently of a golden age in French glass artistry.