Pair of French Limoges Enamel Vases

Description This pair of antique French Limoges enamel vases represents a refined example of Belle Époque design. Painted in vivid enamel colours and attributed to the Limoges workshops, the vases combine figural portraiture with elaborate floral decoration across a richly glazed surface. Each vase is formed with an oval central body, flanked by flared rims to both top and base. The primary scene, enamelled in soft painterly tones, depicts a female figure in Victorian dress, set against a landscaped courtyard with distant architecture and delicate floral borders. These scenes are finely executed and show strong parallels with French romantic painting of the late nineteenth century. The upper and lower registers are finished in a striking mottled green enamel, inset with silver and gold floral motifs, likely applied using champlevé or painted enamelling techniques. This contrasting palette enhances the visual impact and reflects the bold colour experimentation of the Belle Époque period. The lower section of the scene is signed Charley, identifying a listed enameller working in the Limoges tradition. While unsigned to the base, the combination of form, technique, and enamel palette aligns firmly with Limoges production of the late 19th century,  a time when the city’s enamel industry was internationally recognised for both revivalist and contemporary styles. The vases date to the Belle Époque period, circa 1875, and are a strong decorative pairing for collectors of French enamels, portrait miniatures, or romantic decorative arts. ABOUT THE BELLE ÉPOQUE PERIOD (1871-1914) The Belle Époque, meaning “Beautiful Era,” was a golden age of French and European culture, spanning from 1871 to 1914. This period was defined by optimism, innovation, and artistic achievement, particularly in Paris, the centre of fashion, decorative arts, and design. Art Nouveau flourished, alongside exquisite creations in silver, bronze, glass, and jewellery, produced by celebrated makers for an international audience. Collectors prize Belle Époque pieces for their elegance, refined detail, and the way they reflect the cultural sophistication of late 19th and early 20th-century France. For further information please see our article The Belle Époque Era in France: Art, Antiques and a Golden Age of Creativity. LEARN ABOUT LIMOGES ENAMEL Limoges, in south-west France, has been a major centre of enamel production since the 12th century. Initially known for champlevé religious objects, its workshops flourished again in the late 15th century with finely painted enamelware. During the Renaissance, Limoges became Europe’s leading enamel centre, producing luxurious plaques, ewers, and tableware featuring complex figural scenes and Mannerist decoration. After a decline in the 17th century, the city revived its enamel industry in the 19th century, adapting to Art Nouveau and modern decorative styles. Measurements 16.5cm High x 5.8cm Wide (6.5 x 2.28 Inches) Condition Excellent, No damage & No restoration. WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.