D’Argental – Paul Nicolas
The glass art signed d’Argental represents some of the most refined examples of French Art Deco glass. The atelier of Paul Nicolas, a talented student of Émile Gallé, produced exceptional creations under the pseudonym d’Argental. Nicolas continued Gallé’s artistic tradition but developed his own distinctive style, with a strong emphasis on symmetrical natural motifs, often executed using complex cameo techniques.
Execution
This elegant vase features a slender, pear-shaped body with a slightly flaring rim. The glass structure consists of white glass, with a fused blue glass layer applied to the interior near the vase’s mouth. Over the white core, an overlay of orange and dark brown glass has been applied.
Encircling the vase is a magnificent seascape. Small sailboats rest peacefully on gently rippling water. Some boats are prominently placed in the foreground, while others drift toward the horizon in the distance. The setting sun forms the radiant focal point of the decoration. It is masterfully rendered using the cameo technique: by carefully removing parts of the orange overlay, subtle cloud formations have been created, beautifully revealing the glow of the evening sun.
A particularly striking detail is the neck of the vase, where the blue glass layer on the interior is faintly visible, evoking a subtle suggestion of the evening sky and harmoniously completing the composition.
Signature
The vase is elegantly etched on the side into the outer layer of the glass with “d’Argental.”
With its delicate color palette, technical perfection, and poetic maritime scene, this vase exemplifies the artistic refinement for which d’Argental is renowned. The piece represents a highlight within his oeuvre and is a remarkable collector’s item for connoisseurs of refined decorative art.
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