Pair of cast-iron vases

Pair of cast-iron vases

The Val d’Osne foundry was established in 1836 by Jean-Pierre-Victor André. It quickly specialised in the production of artistic street furniture and urban ornaments, including candelabra, fountains and benches. It was notably instrumental in the development of the concept of “artistic cast iron”, combining the material’s exceptional durability with reduced production costs, thereby allowing monumental works to be produced in series.

At the same time, the foundry developed its expertise in statuary and garden ornaments, which were distributed internationally through its renowned commercial catalogues and its participation in various World’s Fairs, notably the 1851 Great Exhibition at the Crystal Palace in London. Val d’Osne subsequently established itself as one of the leading art foundries of the 19th century.

The present pair of vases stands on square bases. The bodies are articulated by a relief decoration of broad stylised shells, from which rise two handles formed by chimeras.

Relief mark to the base: “Val d’Osne”.