Petiz

JEAN MAURICE PETIZON, "PETIZ" (France, 1855-1922).
Art Nouveau vase "The Three Graces", ca. 1890.
Silver-plated pewter.
Signed on the bottom.
Publisher's stamp.
Weight: 2.500 g.
Bibliography: Philippe DAHHAN, Étains 1900, 200 Sculpteurs de la Belle Époque, Les Éditions de l'Amateur, Paris, 2000, reproduced p. 322, fig. 972.
Measurements: 30 x 18 x 18 cm.

This vase totally identifiable of the Art Nouveau style presents a wide and slightly flattened body, culminated by a long and narrow neck with a wide and asymmetrical spout. Its base is defined by three protuberances that serve as seats for three flowers in relief, which extend under the spout. Adding dynamism to the ensemble, three female figures (the Three Graces) lean backwards, resting their feet on the body of the vessel to reach the petals of the flowers.

Jean-Maurice Petizon, known artistically as "Petiz", came from a family of French miners. After the mines closed, he moved to Paris and founded his own foundry around 1890. "Petiz" excelled as a sculptor by creating numerous pieces in the purest Art Nouveau style, adding the distinction of being his own foundryman.