Charles-Émile Jonchery

CHARLES-ÉMILE JONCHERY (1873-1937).
Bonbonniere, ca.1900.
Silver-plated pewter.
Signed on the back.
Bibliography: Philippe DAHHAN, Étains 1900, 200 Sculpteurs de la Belle Époque, Les Éditions de l'Amateur, Paris, 2000, reproduced p. 204, fig. 587.
Weight: 1,230 g.
Measurements: 15 x 13 x 15 cm.

This Art Nouveau bonbonniere is a testimony to how human anatomy and botanical elements converge to elevate an everyday object to the category of collectible sculpture. The front is captivating with the relief of a nude young woman wrapped in subtle veils and plant motifs, while the lid is crowned by a delicate daisy-shaped knob.

The piece, which bears the author's signature, was created by the renowned French sculptor Charles Émile Jonchery. Trained in the workshop of the legendary Auguste Rodin, Jonchery poured into his works the technical mastery that made him a regular figure in the Paris Salons during the first quarter of the 20th century.