Medium oval basin with fish, bark, and fall leaves

Charles-Jean Avisseau

ca. 1850–1855 · Glazed earthenware · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Born the son of a stonemason, Charles-Jean Avisseau was celebrated for rediscovering the “lost” techniques of Bernard Palissy. Though this basin shares elements with the earlier work of the Renaissance potter, Avisseau introduces a seasonal element to this nature-inspired work. Moss-covered bark, and the colors of the foliage suggest autumn and the passage of time.

Artist

Charles-Jean Avisseau

Date

ca. 1850–1855

Medium

Glazed earthenware

Culture

French

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of Wallis Katz, in memory of Marshall Katz, and in celebration of the Museum's 150th anniversary, 2020