A rare small glass piece combining a translucent violet glass quadrangular container with pinched ends, a tripod blue base, and a small central vase with a flattened body and narrow neck, reminiscent of a soliflore. Both decorative and functional, this object suggests a flower-holder bowl designed to adorn the center of a small table, with the small central vase able to hold a single flower or a small bouquet.
The shape, surprisingly geometric and almost architectural, appears relatively restrained compared to the most exuberant creations of Auguste Jean. The hot-working technique, so characteristic of some of his works, is less present here: the artist favors the overall silhouette, color contrasts, and decoration applied to the surface of the glass.
The delicate polychrome enameled decoration with a Japonisme inspiration consists of thin leafy branches, small florets, and medallions with organic outlines, adorned with floral and geometric patterns evoking Japanese textiles.
No other known work by Auguste Jean seems to present a comparable formal combination. Through its unusual shape and hybrid character, this piece offers a particularly interesting insight into the diversity of the artist's production and testifies to his research into the forms, colors, and uses of decorative glass.
Condition: Good condition.
Signature: Signed on the reverse, under the piece, in red enamel: "AJean".
