French Faience Appraisal

Faïence de Moustiers Ceramic Base with Bird and Floral Motif

The item is the base of a ceramic piece, likely a vase, jug, or similar vessel, crafted from off-white faïence or earthenware. Its circular form is visible, with a slightly raised foot rim. The primary feature of the base is a hand-painted manufacturer's mark and decoration. The mark includes the text 'La Vieille Moustiers' and '18+M.J.R.' or '18+MJR' written in a stylized script, indicative of a Moustiers faïence producer, possibly referencing the '18th century' style or an actual date. This text is accompanied by a charming pictorial motif featuring a small, light brown bird with a reddish breast, perched amidst green foliage and stylized blue and orange flowers. The overall color palette for the decoration includes shades of brown, green, blue, and a subtle orange/red, applied in an underglaze or overglaze technique characteristic of traditional Moustiers pottery. The quality of the hand-painting suggests a skilled artisan. Unfortunately, the item exhibits significant condition issues, primarily multiple prominent, dark hairline cracks traversing the base from the foot rim towards the center, appearing to form a 'Y' shape. There are also visible scuffs, dirt, and general wear around the foot rim and the unglazed parts of the base, suggesting a history of use and handling. The presence of these cracks considerably impacts the structural integrity and aesthetic value of the piece. The glazed surface appears somewhat unevenly applied in areas, a common characteristic of older earthenware. The style of decoration, particularly the bird and floral motif, aligns with traditional French faïence designs, suggesting an estimated age ranging from the late 18th century to the 19th or early 20th century revivalist periods inspired by older Moustiers works.