Pierre-Adrien Dalpayrat – Three-Handled Vase

Pierre-Adrien Dalpayrat (1844–1910), Three-Handled Vase, glazed stoneware, circa 1900, signed “Dalpayrat.” Dimensions: H. 23 cm; L. 26 cm.

A prominent French ceramist of the late 19th century, Dalpayrat transformed the art of ceramics through his meticulous attention to the expressive qualities of color and material. His renown rests on the abstract hues of his glazes and his extensive repertoire of forms, which elevate his vases to the status of true sculptures. His works reflect a perfect balance between stylization and naturalism, fully embodying the Art Nouveau aesthetic.

Dalpayrat’s acclaim came in 1892 with a solo exhibition at the prestigious Galerie Georges Petit. Critics marveled at ceramics that combined the grace of classical art with the naturalism of Japanese art. The multicolored tones of his glazes, the result of his mastery over firing and cooling processes, make his works immediately recognizable. Today, they are highly sought after by prestigious institutions and museums.