Torhout - Double handled vase (2) - Ceramic

Léo Maes-Vereenooghe (attributed) – Torhout – Pair of Belgian Art Nouveau vases – ca. 1900

Description

Elegant and unusual pair of small Belgian Art Nouveau vases, attributed to the circle of Léo Maes-Vereenooghe and the artistic pottery production of Torhout, dating approximately from the early 20th century.

Made of glazed ceramic in an attractive glossy olive-green colour, they feature rich botanical decoration in relief, with leaves, branches and fruits, enhanced with gilt details.

Particularly noteworthy are the double side handles, with their distinctive geometric and highly decorative construction, giving the vases a very characteristic silhouette. The combination of form, botanical relief decoration and handle design is consistent with Belgian Torhout pottery from the Art Nouveau period.

The bases retain traces of an old marking which is now heavily worn and no longer legible. In the absence of a clearly identifiable signature, the vases are therefore conservatively presented as attributed to Léo Maes-Vereenooghe / Torhout, rather than as signed works.

Dimensions of each vase:
Height: 15 cm
Maximum width, handle to handle: 10 cm
Base diameter: 4.3 cm

Regarding condition, the vases show signs of age and use consistent with their period, including some wear to the gilded decoration. One vase has a fine hairline crack and a small chip to the upper rim, both clearly shown in the photographs.

The photographs form an integral part of the description and should be carefully examined to assess the condition of the pieces.

The two vases are offered together as a pair.

They will be carefully and securely packed with appropriate protective materials. Shipping will be insured and sent with acknowledgement of receipt/signature upon delivery to ensure the safest possible transport.