In 1879 Rodin joined the Sèvres porcelain factory as 'an extraordinary member, non-permanent, paid monthly 170 francs, 3 francs per hour'. He was hired by his friend, the sculptor Albert Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824-1887), then the artistic director of the factory. Sèvres had a long tradition of working with sculptors, and for Rodin it was a great opportunity to improve his financial situation. He worked there until the end of 1882. Subsequently, Rodin embarked on the long process of creating his monumental masterpiece, La porte de l'Enfer, in which part of the figures of Les Limbes reappeared.
Les Limbes et Les Syrènes, produced on the vase form 'Saigon' designed by Carrier-Belleuse, was part of a series of three vases created in 1880 by Rodin in collaboration with the sculptor Jules Desbois (1851-1935) and executed in different pastel colors.
Related Articles
Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.
More from
The Collection of A. Jerrold Perenchio | Chartwell: An Henri Samuel Commission
You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
The vase presents well but has been cracked in pieces and restored, the body covered in a clear spray. Wear and blackening to the ormolu mount.
Print Report
Cost calculator
Enter your bid amount for an estimated cost
Bid amount
Please enter numbers onlyAmount must be higher than the starting bidAmount must be higher than the current bid