Sèvres Hard-Paste Porcelain Teapot (The story of Mercury and Venus)

Decoration:

Front: Painted with Mercury (the god of commerce) and Venus (the goddess of love), accompanied by small cupids. The background is a landscape.

Back: Depicts two dancers in classical dress, placed in two framed reserves. The background is beige.

Mark: Red inscription “Sèvres X”
Date: Year X (An X), 1801–1802
Dimensions: Height: 13.5 cm

Date note:
"An X" refers to the French Republican calendar, corresponding to 1801–1802 in the Gregorian calendar.
Works from this period often reflect Neoclassical aesthetics, influenced by Greek sculpture and Roman art.

Artistic style:
This piece combines painted decoration with mythological themes typical of early 19th-century Neoclassicism, showing interest in ancient myths and history.
The contrast between the two reserves and the soft background enhances the delicacy and complexity of the main imagery.

The painted scenes are very likely inspired by Jean-Jacques Lagrenée and executed by Charles-Nicolas Dodin, although they have not been precisely identified.

Excellent condition, rich decoration and original gilding remarkably preserved.