Pair of Art Nouveau Vases with Chimney Swallows, Window Swallows, Reeds, and Fleur de Lys by Jean-Baptiste Sloodts
This pair of unique Art Nouveau vases, created circa 1900, are the work of the Belgian artist
Jean-Baptiste Sloodts (1843 – ?). Each vase is a stunning lost-wax casting in bronze, featuring a double patina in light and dark brown.
These vases are signed « JBte Sloodts », representing the artist’s lifelong work at the foundry « La Compagnie des Bronzes » in Brussels.
Starting as a second-class craftsman in 1893, Sloodts’ talents and dedication propelled him to the position of first-class foundryman by 1907. His distinction was the ability to cast and sign his own works, a rarity among foundrymen of his time.
Almost all of Jean-Baptiste Sloodts’ works are unique and in lost-wax casting. The precision,quality of casting, and the artistry of the patina make Sloodts one of the most sought-after foundrymen of the early twentieth century. Works signed by his hand are incredibly rare to find, especially in goodcondition.
Sloodts was renowned for his « nouvelle esthétique » style, which later evolved into the « Art Nouveau » style, making him a precursor of this trend.
- The vases measure approximately 83.5 cm and 83 cm in height, with bases of 18 x 18 cm and 18.5 x 18.5 cm respectively.
- Each vase is a stunning lost-wax casting in bronze, featuring a double patina in light and dark brown.
- They were produced at La Compagnie des Bronzes de Bruxelles.
- This pair of unique Art Nouveau vases, created circa 1900.
- ENGELEN, C. MARX, M. Compagnie des Bronzes. Brussel: Algemeen Rijksarchief en Rijksarchief in de Provincien, 2002. p. 352-357. The first vase is represented on page 354.