Gustave Keller

GUSTAVE KELLER (France, 1879-1955).
Pair of vases.
In pink marble.
Mounted in gilded bronze.
Signed.
Measurements: 29 x 20 x 20 cm.

Important pair of vases signed by Gustave Keller, creator of the prestigious eponymous firm of luxury pieces. They combine pink marble beautifully marbled with gilded bronze mounts. The handle and mouthpiece are also made of gilded bronze and finely worked with rockery motifs, scallops, foliage and scrolls. The voluptuous and flowing forms of the ornaments are partially inspired by the Louis XV style, in its sumptuous pieces with curved lines and organic contours. Hellenism and rococo, elegance and whimsy, converge in the design of these vessels. The pink marble, polished to highlight its natural texture and pink hues, harmonizes with the exquisite qualities of bronze.

The prestigious firm of Gustave Keller, specializing in luxury accessories, vanity cases and marquetry prized for their high quality, was founded in 1856. The exquisite materials used for its creations led the French company to work for the courts of Spain, Russia, Greece and Romania. It was also awarded gold and silver medals at the Paris Universal Exhibitions of 1867 and 1878. Later, Gustave and his brother began to produce silver objects that were awarded a gold medal and a Grand Prix at the Universal Exhibitions of 1889 and 1900, respectively. From the 1900s, the company was also commissioned to produce several important cups and trophies for the Principality of Monaco.