Cherry Blossoms is a superb example of the Japonist stoneware that ernest Chaplet and Edouard Dammouse produced in the Haviland atelier between 1882 and c1886. Here a graceful, asymmetrical Japanese cherry blossom design, generally traceable to Japanese lacquers and screens, has been applied on the surface of a stoneware vessel, which is further embellished by surface textures on the neck and near the foot. the vessel is presented in an Asian-style metal mount featuring fierce lion head masks. Metal ring lug handles, each held in place by an additional lion head, complete the composition.
Signature: Marks: stamped rosary, H & Co, 71, VI
About Ernest Chaplet
Ernest Chaplet began his career in 1848 as an apprentice at Sèvres, where he studied decoration, design and ceramics techniques. In 1882, after more than 30 years in the employ of large ceramics firms, he opened an atelier where, assisted by Albert-Louis Dammouse and funded by Haviland & Company, he created simple stoneware forms ornamented with Japanese-inspired designs. Within three years, Chaplet quietly succeeded in producing a true sang de boeuf glaze, first on stoneware and later on porcelain. He later took full control of the studio and continued production of the glazed stoneware that is still considered revolutionary. [Source: Jason Jacques]
