18th-Century Nevers Faience Candle Sconce Depicting Joan of Arc - 15¾"

A rare 18th-century Nevers faience wall sconce depicting Joan of Arc in half-length portrait, identified by the inscription JEANNE D’ARC. She is shown holding a shield emblazoned with fleurs-de-lys and a sword, traditional attributes symbolising her role as defender of the French kingdom. Less typical is her long, flowing hair, which softens the martial nature of her usual iconography. Richly painted in cobalt blue, green, ochre, and manganese on a white ground, the piece is both decorative and evocative. A sculpted hand beneath the portrait forms the candle holder, combining devotional imagery with practical function.

The front presents beautifully, with vibrant colours and only minor wear consistent with age, having benefited from careful restoration over the centuries, as evidenced by the reverse. Particularly remarkable is the extensive network of historic staple repairs to the back. Carefully stitched together with dozens of iron staples, it serves as a tangible record of the object's long life and the care taken to preserve it across generations.

Whether displayed alone or as part of a collection of faience and devotional objects, this rare sconce brings colour, history, and narrative interest to an interior. The extraordinary repaired reverse adds a further layer of authenticity and character, bearing witness to centuries of use, care, and preservation.