A Sarguemines and black slate torchere French, early 19th century

with a later circular wooden top

The Sarguemines pottery factory, based in Lorraine, was founded in 1778 by Joseph Fabry and continued its production until the end of the 19th century. In 1792 Fabry went into partnership with Francois-Paul Utzschneider (1771-1844) to produce ceramics at the factory at Sarguemines in the Moselle. Utzschneider was the creative force in the partnership and was variously referred to as 'le Wedgwood Français and le céramiste français d'importance le plus mésestime... ce grand génie de la céramique française'. In 1809, the factory was awarded a Gold medal at the Produits de L'Industrie exhibition for their vases in the newly discovered composition of pulverised stone in imitation of porphyry, basalt, jasper and other precious stones. At the exhibition their products attracted the attention of Baron Vivant-Denon, Directeur Général du Musée Napoléon, who granted the factory an Imperial commission which, by August 1810, had evolved into an order for eight pairs of candelabra or torchères of two different designs, and twenty-two pairs of vases of four different designs, of which two pairs are in the Throne Room of Palazzo Reale in Naples. A further pair was recorded in 1925 as having been in the collection of the Grand Duke Nicolas Mikhailovich, grandson of Tsar Nicholas I.

The top later as stated. Overall in a very good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."