A superb eighteenth-century ceramic entry hall fountain from the south of France. Crafted in Moustiers, France, this decorative three-piece set is complete with basin, reservoir with decorated brass spout, and lid. Note the meticulously detailed hand-painted designs throughout as seen in close-up photos. This kind of fountain/wash basin, or lavabo, was a typical piece found in French homes before running water was available.
It consists normally of an upper reservoir piece designed to hold and release water through a spout with a bowl/sink to catch the water below. Imagine you are returning from a long ride on horseback, one of the first things you would do is wash your hands in the entrance hall, and fountains like this served that purpose! The fountain is in excellent condition with rich yellow colors, and would be a charming addition to any room.
The basin could also be used as a planter to hold flowers. Moustiers faience earthenware, a tradition spanning centuries, is made in the charming Provençal village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. It became famous all-over the world thanks to its fine glazed earthenware produced in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Recognizable by its distinctive floral designs, the craft is perpetuated today by a number of workshops in the village.
Light wear.
Approx. overall spaced as seen in photo with both pieces 29¼" high x 13¾" wide x 98½" deep
Approx. overall spaced as seen in photo with both pieces 74cm high x 35cm wide x 250cm deep
