Pair of Lidded Vases

An unknown craftsman carved these vases from blocks of alabaster, a soft, translucent, semi-precious stone prized for its golden color. Modeled with boldly sculptural gadrooning, these vases are striking examples of the late Baroque style that climaxed in France during the reign of Louis XIV. Only the royal manufactory, known as the Gobelins, produced objects such as these vessels, almost exclusively for the French court. Italian craftsmen from Florence, trained at the grand duke's hardstone workshop, the Galleria de' Lavorie, were brought to the Gobelins Manufactory. With their knowledge, training, and skill, these men were able to produce opulent pieces that were designed simply for display and to emphasize the power and magnificence of the French king.