Camille Tharaud

CAMILLE THARAUD (Limoges, 1878–1956).
Box with lid, ca. 1930–1945.
Glazed and gilded Limoges porcelain.
Marked “CT Limoges” and signed “Tharaud” on the base.
In very good condition. Shows slight signs of wear consistent with its age. No visible cracks or chips.
Measurements: 6 × Ø 9 cm.

This small box is a fine example of Camille Tharaud’s Art Deco work, characterized by the rich colors of its glazes and a decorative style that progressively moved away from the traditional naturalistic repertoire of Limoges. Against an intense turquoise-blue background, highly geometric floral motifs in shades of mauve and pink, outlined in gold, are arranged, while black, white, and gold bands define the piece’s outline. The central medallion on the lid accentuates the geometric composition of the piece and embodies much of its Art Deco aesthetic.

Camille Tharaud was a leading figure in the renewal of Limoges porcelain during the interwar period. After acquiring a former local manufactory in 1920, he developed a line of work particularly recognizable for his experiments with colored glazes of great depth and surface richness. His porcelain pieces were featured in the major French decorative arts circuits; in 1928, his works presented at the Salon des Artistes Décorateurs were honored by the Société d’Encouragement à l’Art et à l’Industrie.