Description
A scarce Victor Barbizet covered terrine formed as a rustic basket of fish, France, circa 1870.
The two piece terrine has a lid showing a variety of green glazed fish lying on a bed of ferns and sea grass, all on a watery cobalt blue ground.
The lid sits on a woven, handled market basket glazed in shades of deep brown and umber.
Modeled from life, this extremely dimensional and realistic piece is glazed beautifully. The six overlapping fish show highly detailed scales, fins, and eyes. Another type of small fish lies beneath the pile as if swooped up in the catch. The sea plants are also finely realized in both the molding and glazing.
Jean Baptiste Victor Barbizet (1808-1884), was a French ceramist and the founder of the “École Parisienne” which was part of the movement of Neo-Paliseans of the 19th century. The School of Paris included Victor Barbizet, Francois Maurice, Thomas Sergent, and Georges Pull. The ceramists produced Palissy pieces at the end of 19th century, rarely signing their work.
8 in. L x 6 in. W x 6 in. H
Book Reference: Pg. 124 “Palissy Ware: Nineteenth Century French Ceramists from Avisseau to Renoleau” – Marshall P. Katz, Hudson Hill Press -1996
Incredible antique condition, this piece has been carefully looked after.
