Neoclassical Style Musical Pastoral Scene Urn
Decorative art; porcelain urn or converted lamp base • Produced for Bard Products Corp, New York; likely manufactured in Japan or Occupied Japan for the US import market
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Neoclassical Revival / Hollywood Regency
Medium & Technique
Glazed porcelain with transfer-printed polychrome landscape and gilded (gold luster) highlights
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10-12 inches in height; vertical urn format on a pedestal base with scroll handles
Subject Description
A pastoral 'Fête galante' scene featuring figures in 18th-century style dress gathered beneath a tree in a landscape with classical architecture. The iconography evokes the Rococo tradition of Watteau or Fragonard.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing typical wear to the gilding and surface dust
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $85 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $60 USD
Provenance History
Commercial import to the United States via Bard Products Corp, NY (as indicated by the original foil label on the base)
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century mass-produced decorative arts that utilized 'Old World' European imagery to appeal to American domestic tastes for traditional or 'shabby chic' elegance.
Notable Features
Retains the original green and gold foil importer's label for 'Bard Products Corp, New York, N.Y.', which is critical for dating and origin identification.
Condition Issues
Visible wear/thinning of the gold luster on the base and handles; some surface grime; potential internal issues if previously wired for electricity
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners which will strip the delicate gold luster. Maintain in a stable indoor environment.