Pair of WMF-Stamped Art Nouveau Vases. Stylised Foliate Motif. Circa 1903.
A stunning pair of art nouveau bud vases from the turn of the 20th Century from Wurttembergische Metallwaren Fabrik (WMF).
The two vases are decorated with stylized flowers on both sides. Two ornate handles, and four feet.
These bud vases featured in the WMF book “Art Nouveau Domestic Design” page 361. Item 231 and date from between 1903 to 1910.
The stamps found on the base of the feet include WMF and OX, which means “oxydiert" in German, "oxidized" in English) which signifies artificial darkening of the silver surface to a grey colour.
Jugendstil, meaning "youth style," is a key part of the broader Art Nouveau movement, which sought to break away from the historical styles that had dominated the late 19th century.
Jugendstil's emphasis on design and ornamentation influenced later design movements, such as Art Deco.
The vases are hollow and do not include the original crystal liners.
Each vase measures 14cm tall and 9cm across (including handles).