Renaud and Armide group in Niderviller earthenware, circa 1775

Niderviller earthenware group with polychrome and gold decoration depicting Renaud and Armide* on a terrace: Renaud reclining surrounded by his helmet, arms and shield, Armide standing supporting him, after a model by Cyfflé.
Custine period, circa 1775. 18th century.
Height: 19.5 cm; Width: 23 cm.
One finger of Armide's right hand glued back.
* Renaud et Armide, inspired by an epic poem, Jerusalem Delivered, published by Le Tasse in 1580, recounts the first Crusade led by Godefroy de Bouillon to reconquer Jerusalem. The story provided the backdrop for Lully's lyrical tragedy Armide, composed in 1686. Here, Armide is ready to chain up Renaud and take revenge but gives up and succumbs to the knight's charms.
Cf. P. Alfassa, P. Bloch, J. Chompret and J. Guerin, Le répertoire de la faïence française, pl. 25 A. Paris, 1933.