At the end of the 19th century, French decorative arts were captivated by Japan. The most prestigious manufacturers drew inspiration from Far Eastern prints, porcelains, and their ethereal botanical compositions. This Creil et Montereau compote dish is a beautiful legacy from that era, where elegance was defined as much by the quality of the earthenware as by the delicacy of the decoration. Against an ivory background subtly aged by time, delicate flowering sprigs unfurl, printed in deep blue. The compositions seem to run freely around the bowl, while a beaded frieze subtly highlights the rim with great finesse. The ensemble exudes an impression of lightness, which contrasts with the striking presence of the foot, designed to showcase fruits, pastries, or simply the piece itself. Founded at the end of the 18th century, the Creil et Montereau factory became one of the leading names in French faience. Its creations, renowned for the precision of their prints and quality of execution, accompanied all the major decorative trends of their time, particularly Japonism, which captivated all of Europe between 1880 and 1900. This bowl measures approximately 24 cm in diameter. It bears the Creil et Montereau stamp on the reverse and displays a beautiful use-related patina, a testament to its history, without detracting from its charm or elegance.
Additional details:
- Brand: Creil et Montereau
- Style: Japonisant
- Style: Japonisme
- Material: Faïence
- Colour: ivoire
- Period: fin du XIXe siècle