Charger with Grotesques

ManufacturerPossibly Fabrique de Ferrat (French)

ManufacturerPossibly Olérys-Laugier Factory (French, founded 1738)

CultureFrench

OriginMoustiers-Sainte-Marie, France

PeriodLate 18th Century

Datelate 18th Century

MediumTin-glazed earthenware (grand feu faience)

DimensionsOverall: 2.9 × 38.1 cm (1 1/8 × 15 in.)

Markings“X” in manganese, on the underside. According to some experts, this could stand for Ferrat

DescriptionGrotesques and chinoiseries allowed free range to the artists’ imagination, resulting in the creation of whimsical imagery. The charger exemplifies a later style of grotesque ornament practiced in Moustiers. Characterised by a stylised crane and a fantasy figure framed by loosely scattered vegetation and flying insects, the composition contrasts with the earlier décor Bérain, which is more airy in spirit and symmetrical.

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

Object numberG14.4.9

Classifications

European Ceramics

Sub-classification

French Earthenware - Faïence

Collections

Status

Not on view