Hector Guimard (1867–1942)

Very important Art Nouveau planter in enamelled earthenware, created circa 1897, resting on six feet. The piece features a swollen central body framed by two bulging sections, whose supple, organic lines perfectly embody Guimard’s characteristic aesthetic. Long, dynamic branch-like motifs emerge from the shoulder and extend gracefully to form sculptural handles, giving the piece a vegetal movement typical of the Art Nouveau style.

The surface is adorned with grey-green and beige glazes, enhanced by touches of blue and yellow, producing a subtle and natural chromatic interplay. The reverse of the base bears a partial “Gilardoni Brault Choisy Le Roy” stamp, along with a black-enamelled RB monogram.
Dimensions: H. 24 cm – L. 68 cm – D. 31 cm

Bibliography

• Guimard, exhibition catalogue, Musée d’Orsay, Éditions de la Réunion des musées nationaux, Paris, 1992, p. 262.

• Frédéric Descouturelle and Olivier Pons, La Céramique et la Lave émaillée d’Hector Guimard, Éditions du Cercle Guimard, Paris, 2022, p. 73.

Historical Note

The Cercle Guimard records three other known examples of this jardinière. One is held in the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond (inv. 93.95) and another in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (inv. 1992.208).