A Gilt-bronze mounted ivory and metal cloisonné marquetry jardinière by Ferdinand Duvinage, circa 1880; the ivory signed FDBte, the mounts signed Alph. Giroux Paris; height 15”; In 1867, the Maison Alphonse Giroux, founded in 1799, was taken over by Duvinage and Harinkouck. From 1870 until his death, the firm was under sole direction of Ferdinand Duvinage and was renowned for its exotic and Japonisme creations in the decorative arts; The type of highly decorative marquetry featured on the present lot was patented in 1877 and was probably first shown at the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1878; Ferdinand Duvinage won a silver medal at the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1867. Provenance: Collection of Gianni Versace, Sothebys; 5/21/05, Lot 78. Please visit our you tube video on the Duvinage. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etrt6BM22DY

The Duvinage jardiniere is considered to be in good condition. The gilt-bronze metalwork shows discoloration appropriate to age and usage. The white ivory background some cracking consistent with age.