Polar Bear

This beautifully crafted porcelain polar bear is a fine example of early 20th-century French ceramic artistry. Created by the renowned Sèvres factory, this piece is from the 1920s to 1930s, showcasing the iconic craquelé glaze technique with a perlè finish. The seated bear exudes a serene presence, with meticulously detailed features that highlight the skill of its creators. On the base, it bears the mark 'SEVRES MNF France', ensuring its authenticity and origin.

Condition Report

This Sèvres polar bear is in excellent condition, a testament to its preservation over the decades. The craquelé glaze remains intact, with no visible chips or cracks to mar its surface. The perlè finish retains its subtle sheen, maintaining the elegance intended by its makers. The underside of the base shows minimal wear, consistent with its age, and the Sèvres marks are clearly legible. This piece is ready for display or addition to a collection, having been expertly preserved to maintain its historical and aesthetic integrity.

Dimensions

Weight: 2070gm, Length: 33.5cm, Width: 22.5cm, Height: 27.5cm.

A Decorative Object of Distinction

Originally intended as a decorative object, this polar bear figurine would have been displayed in a place of prominence, such as a mantelpiece or a cabinet. Its serene pose and detailed craftsmanship make it a captivating focal point in any room. The piece reflects the interwar period's appreciation for both natural beauty and refined craftsmanship, making it a timeless addition to any home or collection.

Exemplifying the Craquelé Style

The polar bear is an exemplary piece of the craquelé style that was popular in ceramics during the early 20th century. Characterised by a network of fine surface cracks, this style adds depth and texture to the glaze, enhancing the visual appeal of the piece. The perlè finish, a hallmark of Sèvres porcelain, gives the surface a lustrous quality, catching light in a way that highlights the delicate details of the bear’s features. This combination of techniques exemplifies the innovative approaches to ceramic glazing during this era.

The Craft of Sèvres Porcelain

The production of this polar bear involved meticulous craftsmanship typical of the Sèvres factory. Each piece of porcelain was carefully moulded and shaped before undergoing a complex glazing process. The craquelé glaze required precise control to achieve the fine crackle pattern without compromising the integrity of the piece. The perlè finish was then applied, a process that involved multiple firings to ensure the finish adhered perfectly, resulting in the elegant luster seen today. This meticulous attention to detail is a hallmark of Sèvres porcelain.

Made by the Distinguished Sèvres Factory

This polar bear was crafted by the renowned Sèvres factory, a name synonymous with high-quality porcelain since the 18th century. Located near Paris, the Sèvres factory has a rich history of producing exquisite porcelain pieces for the French court and discerning collectors. Known for their innovation in ceramic techniques, Sèvres pieces are highly sought after by collectors worldwide. This polar bear is a testament to the factory's enduring legacy and commitment to excellence in ceramic art.

A Favourite Among Collectors of Sèvres Porcelain

Collectors are drawn to Sèvres porcelain for its historical significance and the unparalleled craftsmanship it represents. Pieces such as this polar bear are particularly coveted for their unique combination of artistic innovation and functional beauty. Sèvres items often become focal points in collections, admired for their intricate details and the skill evident in their creation. Owning a piece from Sèvres is owning a part of history, cherished by collectors who value the artistic and cultural heritage encapsulated within each piece.