Old Paris Porcelain Portrait Vase of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow with Gilt Poetic Inscription, circa 1880

A rare and possibly unique hand-painted Old Paris commemorative vase honoring American literary icon Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882), combining exceptional portraiture with a full gilt-inscribed stanza from his most celebrated poem, A Psalm of Life:

"Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time."

Executed in a refined, flattened ovoid "pillow" form with a tapering foot and gently curved shoulders, the vase is richly decorated in a warm ivory glaze, classical red ground, and crisp gilt accents. The portrait is rendered with striking fidelity and polychrome nuance"”likely by a skilled Parisian decorator producing export wares tailored to American literary and patriotic taste during the poet's lifetime.

The reverse bears the full stanza in raised gilt script within a decorative reserve. The base is unmarked except for impressed mold or catalog numbers "105" and "2," a common feature among Old Paris manufactories, particularly for limited or customized production.

This piece stands out as a historically significant and exceptionally rare survival, merging fine porcelain artistry with transatlantic literary homage. Its quality of painting, poetic inscription, and export intent suggest a bespoke or very limited production, perhaps commissioned to commemorate Longfellow's international fame in the 19th century.

Dimensions: 9.5" H x 9.5" W x 3.5" D

Condition: Excellent antique condition with only minor gilt wear; no cracks, chips, or restorations observed.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading. Condition: Excellent antique condition with only minor gilt wear; no cracks, chips, or restorations observed.

Dimensions:
Height: 9.5 in.
Width: 9.5 in.
Depth: 3.5 in.

Category: Vases
Origin: France
Materials: Enamel, Porcelain
Creator: Brand: Old Paris

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $84.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: No International Shipping for this auction.

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Location: This item ships from West Palm Beach, FL

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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading. Condition: Excellent antique condition with only minor gilt wear; no cracks, chips, or restorations observed.