Clément MASSIER (1844-1917) – Christ on the Mountain

Clément Massier (1844-1917), Christ on the Mountain, glazed ceramic, 1900, H. 30.2 cm; W. 42 cm; D. 2 cm, inscription on the back “MCM Golfe-Juan”.

A rare glazed ceramic plaque by Clément Massier, part of his most artistic production, where faience and enamels are explored as expressive media.
The composition could represent Christ on the mountain, during the third temptation of the desert, or perhaps a more symbolic vision of Him with open arms facing the vastness of nature. The scene plays with emptiness and silence, evoking the spirit of Oriental painting — reminiscent of Chinese Shan shui, with mountains that seem to drift like clouds.
Its subtle monochromy highlights the craquelure of the glaze, creating a refined and poetic atmosphere. A delicate and rare example of Massier’s art.

Clément Massier (1845-1917) was a central figure of artistic ceramics in Golfe-Juan and a pioneer of technical innovation, contributing decisively to the perfection of metallic luster glazes that brought him international fame. Coming from a celebrated family of ceramists who developed renowned ateliers on the French Riviera, Massier combined exceptional technical mastery with a sensitivity to contemporary artistic movements. His workshop was present at major international exhibitions, including the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1900. Beyond his technical achievements, his true greatness lay in his ability to engage in dialogue with the art of his time, collaborating with important figures such as Lucien Lévy-Dhurmer and other leading exponents of French and European art.