Henri Huppe

HENRI HUPPE (1855-1904).
Jug, ca. 1900
Silver-plated pewter.
Signed on the right side.
Marks on the reverse.
Bibliography: Philippe Dahhan, "Etains 1900 - 200 Sculpteurs de la Belle Epoque", Editions de l'amateur. Page 197, fig. 563-564.
Weight: 4,200 g.
Measurements: 39 x 18 x 14 cm.

This pewter jug, designed by sculptor Henri Huppe, captures the essence of Art Nouveau through a dreamlike scene. The piece presents a relief of great virtuosity where two nymphs bathe and drink in a fountain fed by a waterfall. Its design is completed by a handle in the form of an organic branch that seems to sprout naturally from the body of the pitcher, surrounded by delicate vegetal ornaments. It is a testament to how the creative freedom of the period succeeded in elevating a functional object to the status of art sculpture.

The sculptor Henri Huppe (active between 1870 and 1880) achieved public recognition after participating in the prestigious Paris Salon of 1874. This Salon, which exhibited works approved by the Royal Academy and later by the Academy of Fine Arts, was the central artistic event in Paris until 1880.