Vase on a column stand
after 1771–72, mounts ca. 1780
Medium
Egyptian porphyry, gilt-bronze mounts
Dimensions
H. (vase) 41 1/4 in. (104.8 cm); H. (stand) 35 5/8 in. (90.5 cm); Diam. 16 3/8 in. (41.6 cm)
Classification
Natural Substances
Culture
French, Versailles and Paris
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 1971
Accession Number
1971.206.44
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold the majestic *Vase on a Column*, a pinnacle of French craftsmanship from the late 18 century. Crafted from Egyptian porphyry—a deep purple stone revered since Roman times for its imperial prestige—the vase stands an impressive 41¼ inches tall, elevated further by its 35⅝-inch gilt-bron column stand. The opulent mounts, added around 1780, feature intricate motifs of animals and grapes, naturalism with neoclassical elegance. Renowned makers collaborated: Pierre-Philippe Thomire, master bronzier; François-Joseph Bélanger, architect; and Augustin Bocciardi, sculptor, all linked to the royal...