Pierre-Adrien Dalpayrat (1844-1910) & Jean Coulon (1853-1923) – "La Nuit"

This spectacular enameled stoneware pitcher is a masterful blend of sculpture and ceramics, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of Pierre-Adrien Dalpayrat and Jean Coulon. The main volume is shaped like an eagle owl, its chest sheltering three sleeping female figures, while a fourth is nestled at the base, curled between its talons. The green glaze, marbled with gray on a light background, enhances the dreamlike quality of the piece, accentuating the fluidity of its forms. Signed with the "exploded pomegranate" stamp, this rare and iconic Art Nouveau creation stands as a testament to its era’s artistic excellence.

A model of this artwork is part of the Musée d’Orsay collection in Paris.

Bibliography:

• Adrien Dalpayrat, collective of authors, Arnoldsche, 1998, model reproduced p.141.

• Revue des Arts Décoratifs 1894-95, covering an exhibition in December 1894 at the Galerie Georges Petit.

• Pierre-Adrien Dalpayrat, André Dalpayrat, study published for the exhibition at the Musée de l'Ile-de-France - Château de Sceaux, 1999, model reproduced pl. 6.

• Alastair Duncan, The Paris Salons 1895-1914, volume IV, model reproduced p.100.