The French Connection

Le Goût Français, or The French Taste, is a perennial auction favourite and we are excited to offer several outstanding examples of French design in this month’s Works of Art, Medals, Militaria & Furniture sale. 

An outstanding set of eight comports by designer Ferdinand Barbedienne lead the way: Barbedienne began his career as a wallpaper dealer in Paris before finding his calling working in bronze in the 1830s; he set up a firm recreating statues from antiquity in miniature for the burgeoning middle classes before branching out into his own designs, eventually winning the Grande Médaille d'Honneur in 1855.  The comports of Lot 799 are a prime example of why his reputation, after all this time, has arguably never been higher. 

French furniture continues to contribute effortless elegance to an interior and few more so than Lot 731, a commode of Louis XV design of the classic bombe outline which wouldn’t be out of place in the gilded halls of Versailles; of high-quality craftsmanship, this is a piece both to last and to impress. 

 


 

Finally, the French were known in the 19th century for the quality of their vanity items and Lot 852, an unusual perfume caddy, certainly follows in this tradition.  Formed as two mother of pearl shells enclosing twin perfume bottles, it would be the perfect vessel for that bottle of Chanel No. 5 on the dressing table. 

 

 

 

With Scotland and France’s long-standing relationship, we often see high quality Gallic imports passing through these rooms and are pleased to offer these latest highlights – we hope you agree that they all carry that certain je ne sais quoi. 

 

Click here to view the full auction catalogue. >>

James Spiridion

 

The next Works of Art, Medals, Militaria & Furniture Auction takes place on 4 November and entries are invited. Advice on selling is free and without obligation. To discuss consigning to a McTear's auction, make an appointment to visit our Glasgow Galleries or contact a specialist by clicking this link and completing the short form.

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