Chopin,
I definitely appreciate that there are a vast number of fakes out there and I'll not be certain as to the authenticity of this one until it's handled by a professional who can tell me one way or the other. Galle' did make several two-color pieces, usually in the smaller examples. Obviously, the more colors used, larger size and deeper levels of detail improves the value of a pieces because of the work that went into creating them... except, of course, in which cases miniatures are specifically sought for the scarcity. Pieces found in museums or in art books are going to be of the highest level of inticracy and workmanship
and I think that lovers of this glass get accustomed to seeing those as the only "real" Galle'. Sadly, most of us will not be able to afford a genuine, museum quality Galle but, an authentic cabinet vase just might be within range.
My first picture was taken with a flash in an attempt to capture the level of detail in the flowers. I'm afraid, that self same flash distorted the quality of the colors as well so I can see how you came to your conclusions. I can tell you, though, that when I purchased this piece it was practically sight unseen as the single picture available was miserably blurry and practically no description was given except to attest to it's lack of damage or repair. The seller actually said that they had found no "makers marks". I just went with my gut. When it arrived, however, I was dumbfounded and my heart leapt. I just knew that I held something special. Despite it's diminutive stature, or perhaps due to it, I found the level of detail stunning (I do so wish I could properly capture this quality at 72ppi to share). There are finer examples, to be sure, but if this is indeed a genuine piece of Galle' artwork then I'm privileged to have it. At this point, though, it's all conjecture. Until I can have it handled and either confirmed or refuted, none of us will know for sure. If it turns out to be false, I'm only out a few bucks - no tragedy there. The knowledge I've gained from the research it's inspired is already worth much more than I paid for the piece. If, however, it turns out to be genuine... well... that's just exciting, isn't it? I look forward to having the truth about it and sharing that truth with you. I've got an appointment this weekend to have it seen. So, by Monday I'll be able to attest to it's authenticity or not.
Thanks,
Bidda
My impression that it was modern Chinese was based on the garish paucity of colours, and I have seen this on several examples. I have never seen real Galle in these colours.
However, the only real Galle I have seen has been in museums, in reference books, and at the Art Nouveau exhibition that was on in the V&A a few years ago. I have never handled any.
The stuff I've seen that is real, just SCREAMS quality. It's not something I can really identify, it just talks to me so loudly that I worry everybody else can hear it too! :oops: I can't tell from pictures.
The moth bowl is one I have a book picture of, but the reality was something else. I've seen loads of stuff in antique fairs etc. but it has never had any quality, I have always just assumed there were a lot of fakes!