Early 20th Century Monumental Pierre Clement Massier Iridescent Vase

Description

A monumental ceramic vase with iridescent glaze in an elongated bulbous shape by the legendary French ceramist Pierre Clement Massier … more A monumental ceramic vase with iridescent glaze in an elongated bulbous shape by the legendary French ceramist Pierre Clement Massier (1845-1917).

Massier is widely considered as the founder the modern ceramic industry of Vallauris, Southern France, and one of the key creators of modern lusterware with iridescent glaze. A master ceramist and glazer, Massier set up his own factory in 1883 in Golfe-Juan outside Vallauris. From the studio there, he developed his famous iridescent glaze. His work had many influence and input from other Near and Far East cultures and went on to win many international awards. It was said that Louis Comfort Tiffany and Loetz were deeply influenced by his work and was the catalyst for Tiffany’s now famous Favrile glass.

This vase was made in 1900 in the Art Nouveau period, thickly potted with heavy wall and covered with a radiant iridescent glaze. The simple form appears beguilingly modern, compared to some of his other more exotic designs. The splendid surface decoration was clearly influenced by Japanese aesthetic (Japonesque, which took Europe by storm at that time and greatly impacted on western art for decades to come). At first glance the vase has a delicate simple aesthetic iridescent design. One can imagine 3-4 ghostly figures in the dense woods and shrubbery but that will change as fast as the light and angle changes. Photos can never adequately portray iridescent surfaces so the delight will all be present with this vase.

The base is faintly pressed marked "Clement Massier Golfe Juan' as well as glazed iridescent script “Clement Massier Golfe-Juan Am". In 1900, Massier lost his beloved wife Mary. From 1900 to 1901, he dedicated his creation to her by adding an M to his initials, which is found on this piece.

Height: 17.25 Inches (44 cm)
Diameter: 6 Inches (15 cm)

Condition: Very good with wear commensurate of age and use. One scratch with noting pictured on last image. less