Sevres and Aubussons
Sèvres and Aubusson represent two prominent French artistic traditions. Sèvres is known for its exquisite porcelain, particularly its soft-paste porcelain, which was favored for its beauty and intricate designs. Aubusson, on the other hand, is renowned for its fine, flat-weave carpets and tapestries.
Here's a more detailed look at each:
Sèvres Porcelain:
History:
Sèvres porcelain, a type of soft-paste frit-porcelain, was produced at the Chateau de Vincennes, later at the Sèvres factory, under royal patronage.
Characteristics:
Sèvres porcelain is known for its delicate beauty, elegant designs, and high quality, often featuring floral motifs, landscapes, or portraits.
Importance:
It was a favored choice for royal and diplomatic gifts, and its designs influenced other manufacturers.
Markings:
Sèvres porcelain is typically marked with a blue interlaced double-L enclosing a date letter, although these marks have also been forged, according to Dawsons Auctioneers.
Other examples:
Vase garnitures, dinner services, and plaques are examples of Sèvres' creations.
Aubusson Tapestries and Carpets:
History:
Aubusson, located in central France, has been a renowned center for tapestry and carpet weaving since the 16th century, with weavers from Flanders taking refuge there around 1580.
Characteristics:
Aubusson tapestries are known for their flat-weave construction, often featuring intricate designs, and are sought after for their timeless elegance and soft coloration.
Importance:
They were commissioned by royalty, including Louis XV, Louis XVI, and Napoleon, and are still widely sought after by interior designers and collectors.
Designs:
Aubusson tapestries often depict romantic pastoral scenes, historical scenes, or architectural vistas, and are known for their finely balanced compositions.
Other examples:
Aubusson Chinoiserie tapestries and sets of tapestries for chairs are examples of Aubusson's creations.
