About this piece

This glass sculpture or relief featuring two intertwining carp rising from the water has a distinctly Japanese feel, but it is French and likely made in the late 1930s to 1940s. It is signed with a monogram that could correspond to the renowned glass artist and polymath Pierre D'Avesn, though I won't assert this without supporting evidence.

Additionally, it is also signed with "Bte S.G.D.G." (Breveté Sans Garantie Du Gouvernement), indicating that it was patented without government guarantee. This was a law dating back to 1844 and lasted until 1968, making it easier and less expensive for a small entrepreneur or craftsman to apply for a patent for an invention or new process.

I have never come across anything like this before, it's really rare. It is made of glass that is completely transparent and smooth on the back, and worked on the front; it is etched, enameled, and patinated. It is beautiful to look at on its own, and with light shining on it, it comes even more to life. The artist aimed to create depth by placing the fish one behind the other, and by colouring the wave in jade green, it also draws extra attention to the movement of the fish. Very skilfully done.


Condition

The black glass base has a chip at the back. Additionally, on one side, there is a recessed line as an extension of the sculpture's base, while on the other side, there isn't. Perhaps this was necessary for positioning the sculpture.


Material:
Glass

Measurements:
Length: 20 cm (7,87")
Height: 20,5 cm (8,07")
Depth: 7 cm (2,76")

Period:
1935-1940

Origin:
France