A French gilt-bronze-mounted Chinese cloisonné enamel jardinière, in the manner of Ferdinand Barbedienne second half 19th century

the lobed vase with a pierced gilt-bronze rim with a trefoil motif and foliage decorated with peonies, leaves, chrysanthemums and butterflies on a pale blue and gilt ground, the stand with four winged seated lions on pierced scrolled feet, the reverse of the mounts on the stand incised IS   

In overall very good conserved condition. The colour of the enamel is slightly darker with more contrast and the gilding is less greenish and more golden and attractive than in the catalogue photograph. Attractive casting to the gilt-bronze. The cloisonné enamel is in very good condition. One of the lion wings has some green putty on the reverse and is slightly loose and on the same lion two screws are visible on the other wing where it joins the body and there is a small gap between the head and the body which can either be left or easily adjusted. Good large size and striking and can be placed immediately.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This impressive jardinière in the chinoiserie taste is very much in the manner of objects in enamel produced by Ferdinand Barbedienne in Paris in the last quarter of the 19th century which proved universally popular. Often these pieces were designed by Edouard Lievre  (d. 1886) in the Oriental taste.

A jardinière in cloisonné enamel in the Japanese taste signed by F. Barbedienne and designed by Edouard Lièvre was sold Christie's, New York, 20th April 2006, lot 192.

For information on Barbedienne, see the footnote to the following lot.