Pair Antique Victorian French Opaline Glass Chinoiserie Vases Hand Enamelled

A handsome pair of Victorian opaline/milk glass vases, likely French, c.1860-1880, of baluster form on circular spreading feet, decorated with fine hand-enamelled chinoiserie scenes.

The principal reserves depict elaborate Chinese figural scenes: a robed sage seated beside a table laden with scrolls and vases, attendants and children in flowing robes, with butterflies and trailing floral sprays throughout. The reverse of each vase is hand-painted with a basket of flowers. The enamelwork is executed with the precision and palette typical of fine French opaline of the mid-Victorian period, in pinks, yellows, blues and gilt.

Gilt-trimmed rims with some wear consistent with age. No chips, cracks, or significant losses to the enamel — please see detailed close-up photographs.

French opaline of this quality is widely collected. The chinoiserie subject matter is particularly desirable, reflecting the 19th-century European fascination with the East. While unsigned, the form, palette, and quality are consistent with the better Parisian opaline houses of the period.

Dimensions: Each vase approximately 28 cm tall.

From a private UK collection. Sold as a true pair. Carefully packed and dispatched via insured tracked service.