Large 19th‑century Continental Sèvres‑style Vase with Ram‑mask Handles, Hand‑painted Maiden Scene

A striking late‑19th‑century Continental porcelain urn in the French taste, standing 38 cm high with elegant twin scroll handles terminating in biscuit-style ram masks. The neck and shoulder are finished in rich bleu‑céleste with fine gilt detailing; the front reserve is exquisitely hand‑painted with a maiden by a river in a pastoral landscape, the reverse with trailing foliage. Typical of Paris and Dresden workshops working in the Sèvres revival, c. 1875–1895, this decorative statement piece was made for the grand salons of the era. It presents beautifully, with honest age to the gilding. A later stained wooden socle replaces the original porcelain foot; there is a small restored-ready chip to the inner rim lip (see photos). Dimensions: H 38 cm; width across handles approx. 24 cm. A superb focal point for a mantel, console, or entryway—rich colour, classical form, and fine hand painting. The Replacement wooden foot is a critical aspect of this item's history. This indicates the original porcelain pedestal stem and base were shattered—a common injury for top-heavy vases. In the 19th or early 20th century, rather than discarding the expensive painted vessel, a craftsman turned a wooden base to keep the vase functional. This is a period repair & part of its life story. Condition: Wear to gilding; chip to inner rim; later wooden foot. Stable, displays well. Origin: Continental Time Period: Late 19th century (circa 1875–1895) Made in the French taste, strongly influenced by Sèvres and “Vieux Paris” (Old Paris) porcelain. Similar work was also produced in Dresden/Bohemia for export to Britain. The ram heads reference neoclassical/Bacchic motifs popular after the mid‑1800s revival of 18th‑century Sèvres forms. Bleu-céleste ground with parcel gilding and a finely painted reserve scene are typical salon-decor pieces for grand mantels and sideboards.