Terracotta Baluster Vase

This terracotta vase is a large ornamental model in the neoclassical style, probably inspired by antique vases. It rests on a square base decorated with a laurel wreath and a ribbon sculpted in bas-relief. The handle of the vase is richly decorated with scenes in relief, representing draped figures in graceful attitudes, evoking bacchanals or mythological processions. These figures, in the round, are reminiscent of antique frescoes or Greco-Roman bas-reliefs. Under the handle, a central motif sculpted in high relief shows an ornate head, possibly an allegorical or mythological figure, surrounded by plant elements and stylized volutes. The upper edge is highlighted by a frieze in relief, composed of a succession of repetitive motifs evoking palmettes or stylized acanthus leaves. This type of vase was often produced in the 19th century, notably by French manufacturers specializing in architectural and ornamental terracotta, such as Rouillard, Villaroy or Muret. It is probably a vase intended to be placed in a garden or a courtyard of honor.