Buff earthenware modelled with reptiles and shells and decorated with coloured glazes. French (Paris?), ca. 1600-50.

Modelled in the form of a rock with lizards, frogs and shells.

Bought

Bought from the Soulages Collection.
A very similiar fountain, still with its figure mounted on the top, is at the Musée de Picardie in Amiens. It has been attributed to a Paris workshop (possibly) and dated to the first half of the 17th century.

A complete table fountain of this form was sold by Sir Gyles Isham, Baronet (Sotheby's, May 21 1957, lot 111 - illustrated). Another had been exhibited at South Kensington in 1862 -
Catalogue of the Special Loan Exhibition at the South Kensington Museum, Section 8, no.1244, p.108. Described as: Table fountain, forming a circular plateau, from the centre of which rises a steep conical hill or rock; the surface of the piece is entirely covered with pebbles and shells, frogs, lizards and other animals. At the summit are serpents' heads, forming the water jets. Height: 8 in; diameter: 17 in.

537-1865