Auguste Jean
CENTERPIECE
CENTERPIECE
Between 1877 and 1884
Blown and hot-worked glass, polychrome enameled decoration, gilt highlights
H. 36.5 cm; D. 19 cm
Private collection
© Millon
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Philippe Olland Collection.
Millon, Collection of Mr. P. Olland, Museum of Enamels and Art Glass (Part 2), Lot 156, Paris, October 13, 2026.
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Important centerpiece or tiered vase, in translucent brown blown glass, with polychrome enameled decoration, metallic effects, and gilt highlights. The piece is composed of several elements arranged on a vertical axis: a large tripod bowl at the base, an elongated and richly worked central stem, punctuated by bulges and small applied details, and a second, smaller bowl at the top, supported by a knop element.
Almost every part displays significant hot-working: the base of the lower bowl, the rims of both bowls, the numerous applied details and glass "teardrops" that appear to drip down the sides, as well as the various elements of the central stem.
The surface is adorned with a rich polychrome enameled decoration of Far Eastern inspiration, combining flowers, leafy branches, butterflies, fans, and ribbons. Certain motifs evoke Japanese fabrics and textile ornaments. The gilt highlights and metallic effects further accentuate the preciousness of the ensemble.
With its exceptional formal complexity, the work testifies to the freedom with which Auguste Jean experimented with the possibilities of blown glass and hot-working. A true architectural vertical construction, this work is unique in Auguste Jean's production: only one other centerpiece of similar form is known to us, though with different color and decoration, which makes it a particularly rare and remarkable piece within his glasswork oeuvre.
Condition: Good condition.
Signature: Signed on the reverse, under the piece, near one foot, in red enamel: "A.Jean".
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