Ewer and Basin with Chinoiserie

Manufacturer Manufacture de la Veuve Perrin (French, 1742 - 1803)

OriginMarseille, France

Date1750-1800

MediumTin-glazed earthenware, petit feu enamels

DimensionsOverall (G12.14.2a - Ewer): 29.5 × 18.1 × 13 cm (11 5/8 × 7 1/8 × 5 1/8 in.) Overall (G12.14.2b - basin): 9.8 × 38.3 × 25.3 cm (3 7/8 × 15 1/16 × 9 15/16 in.)

Markings"VP" in red with a green stroke on the ewer and basin. This is the mark of Honoré Savy while he was employed by the Veuve Perrin

DescriptionEwers and basins were essential components of the morning ritual of the toilette, used for washing the face and hands, the basin serving as a portable sink. They were also used for washing hands after eating in bedchambers or private apartments. Made fashionable by its chinoiserie ornament, this faience ewer and basin would have provided a less expensive alternative to examples made of porcelain or silver.

Credit LineThe Pierre Karch and Mariel O'Neill-Karch Collection.

Object numberG12.14.2a-b

Classifications

European Ceramics

Sub-classification

French Earthenware - Faïence

Collections

Status

Not on view