Edouard Marcel Sandoz Art Deco Pink Lidded Duck Jug

The Edouard Marcel Sandoz Art Deco Pink Lidded Duck Jug is a striking piece hailing from the early 20th century. Designed by the notable artist Edouard Marcel Sandoz for the Theodore Haviland Limoges porcelain company, this jug is a testament to the era's modernist design ethos. Featuring an elongated neck and stylised body, the piece captures the sleek, form-centric aesthetic typical of the Art Deco period. The vivid pink glaze is complemented by green accents on the duck's beak and feet, illustrating the era's penchant for bold colour contrasts. The jug bears Sandoz's signature on its base and neck, along with printed marks for Theodore Haviland Limoges, dating it to circa 1917.

Condition Report

This Edouard Marcel Sandoz duck jug is in very good condition, with wear consistent with its age and usage. The glaze remains vibrant and intact, showcasing the high-quality craftsmanship typical of Theodore Haviland Limoges porcelain. Any minor surface imperfections are a testament to its historical journey, adding character without detracting from its visual appeal. There are no significant chips or cracks, ensuring it remains a fine example of early 20th-century porcelain art. The signature and maker's marks are clear and legible, further authenticating its provenance and making it a valuable addition to any collection.

Dimensions

Weight: 300gm, Length: 11cm, Width: 7cm, Height: 19cm.

A Functional Porcelain Jug

The original intended use of this piece was as a jug, a common household item elevated by its artistic design. While functional, the jug's design prioritises aesthetic appeal, making it as much a decorative object as a utilitarian one. The lid design suggests it was intended for serving beverages, while the elongated neck and spout facilitate easy pouring. Its decorative elements ensure it would have been an eye-catching piece on any table, reflecting status and taste in early 20th-century settings.

Art Deco Design Elements

This jug exemplifies the Art Deco movement, characterised by its emphasis on streamlined forms and geometric motifs. The elongated and stylised depiction of the duck is indicative of the period's focus on abstraction and modernity. The juxtaposition of the vivid pink with green accents aligns with the movement's love for vibrant colour schemes. Art Deco, emerging in the 1920s, sought to combine luxury with practicality, a balance this jug achieves through its functional form and decorative appeal. The jug's design is a clear nod to the era's artistic influences, from Cubism to Futurism, reflecting the innovative spirit of the time.

Porcelain Craftsmanship and Glazing

The creation of this jug involved skilled craftsmanship typical of the Theodore Haviland Limoges porcelain company. The porcelain body was carefully moulded, ensuring the duck's form was both elegant and functional. The glazing process, which gives the jug its vibrant pink hue, would have required precision to achieve the even, lustrous finish. The application of green accents demonstrates an attention to detail, enhancing the overall design without overwhelming it. The use of high-quality materials and expert techniques underscores the piece's durability and visual appeal, characteristics that have allowed it to endure for over a century.

Designed by Edouard Marcel Sandoz

Edouard Marcel Sandoz, a Swiss sculptor known for his animalier works, crafted this jug with his signature style. His work often focused on the natural world, blending realism with abstraction, a balance evident in the duck jug's design. Sandoz's collaboration with Theodore Haviland Limoges brought his artistic vision to a wider audience, marrying fine art with functional design. His signature on the jug not only authenticates the piece but also connects it to a broader body of work that has been celebrated for its innovation and artistic merit. Sandoz's influence is evident in the jug's harmonious blend of form and function.

Appeal to Collectors

Collectors of Art Deco pieces are often drawn to the movement's distinctive style, characterised by bold geometric shapes and vibrant colours, both of which are present in this jug. The association with Edouard Marcel Sandoz further enhances its desirability, as his works are renowned for their artistic quality and innovative design. This jug represents a convergence of art and utility, a hallmark of the Art Deco period, appealing to those who appreciate historical craftsmanship and design evolution. Its provenance, marked by both Sandoz's signature and Haviland Limoges marks, adds to its collectible value, making it a sought-after piece for enthusiasts of early 20th-century art and design.