Ferdinand Duvinage (French, circa 1820–1876)
A Gilt-Bronze Mounted Metal Cloisonné and Marquetry JardinièreParis, circa 1880
Signed FDBte; the mounts signed Alph. Giroux Paris
Height: 15 in. (38.1 cm)
specialist note:
A superb example of the refined and exotic aesthetic of late 19th-century Parisian decorative arts, this jardinière combines Duvinage’s patented marquetry technique with richly colored cloisonné-style inlays and finely cast gilt-bronze mounts. The Maison Alphonse Giroux—founded in 1799 and celebrated for its luxurious objets d’art—was taken over in 1867 by Duvinage and Harinkouck. From 1870 until his death, Ferdinand Duvinage directed the firm, gaining renown for its innovative Japonisme-inspired creations.
The distinctive marquetry technique seen here, patented in 1877, was likely first exhibited at the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1878. Duvinage had earlier been awarded a silver medal at the Exposition Universelle of 1867, affirming his reputation as one of the foremost artisans of his era.
Provenance:
Collection of Gianni Versace
Sotheby’s, New York, 23 May 2005, sale N08144