Rare Georges Jouve Caryatides Sell for Over $160,000, Doubling Pre-Sale Estimate

Georges Jouve caryatid, circa 1946 © Bonhams

BY ALBERT CHEN

A pair of rare Georges Jouve caryatides, circa 1946, originating from L’Institut Harriet Hubbard Ayer et Alexandre de Paris on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, sold for £127,400 ($162,000) at Bonhams Design and Contemporary Ceramics Sale held online this April. The final price far exceeded the pre-sale estimate of £50,000-70,000 ($63,000-89,000).

Renowned French designer and interior decorator Jean Pascaud created the exquisite reception and entrance hall for the institute, where the Georges Jouve caryatides were prominently displayed. These pieces stood beside decorative entrance grilles designed by Gilbert Poillerat, a leading ironwork master of the time.

Marcus McDonald, Bonhams Director of Design and Contemporary Ceramics, commented on the historical significance of the pieces. “Harriet Hubbard Ayer was a remarkable woman born in 1849 in Chicago, Illinois. A socialite and an American cosmetics entrepreneur and journalist, she set the stage for later female cosmetic moguls. The caryatides, made in glazed stoneware, were situated just at the entrance of her famous salon. They are impressive pieces, and we are delighted with the price achieved, which is a testimony to their quality and heritage.”

McDonald also noted the strong performance of designer heritage pieces and the continued appeal of contemporary ceramics in the auction.

Georges Jouve (1910-1964) was a renowned French ceramicist known for his innovative and modern approach to ceramics. Originally trained as a sculptor at the École Boulle in Paris, his career was interrupted by World War II, during which he was captured and imprisoned by the Germans. After escaping, he returned to France and settled in the town of Dieulefit, where he began working with ceramics.

Jouve’s work is characterized by its bold forms, vibrant glazes, and a blend of traditional and modern influences. He often experimented with shapes, textures, and colors, creating pieces that were both functional and artistic. His ceramics included vases, lamps, and sculptural objects, many of which have become highly collectible.

Georges Jouve caryatides, circa 1946 © Bonhams

Jouve’s contributions to the field of ceramics were significant, and he played a key role in the post-war resurgence of interest in ceramic art. His works are celebrated for their elegance, craftsmanship, and the innovative use of materials and techniques. Today, Georges Jouve is considered one of the leading figures in 20th-century ceramics, and his pieces are highly sought after by collectors and museums worldwide.

BY ALBERT CHEN

McDonald also noted the strong performance of designer heritage pieces and the continued appeal of contemporary ceramics in the auction.

Login