Featuring a beautiful hand-painted cobalt blue and white finish, this faience lion candle holder dates to circa 1890. Based on production marks on the back of the base, the candle holder was produced in Saint-Clément, by Keller & Guerin, which was originally a factory of the famed Luneville Studio that opened in 1728.

Saint-Clément is a commune in the Grand Est of France, roughly 35 km from the major city of Nancy. This proximity is important, as the motto for Nancy, non inultus premor (loosely translated as “I cannot be touched with impunity”) appears on a scrolled coat of arms shield near the lion. Depicted as rampant guardant, the lion stands over the shield and a large, parted leaf on the textured terrain. The heraldic display features an open mural crown over a banner with the Latin motto beneath. Both forepaws are extended, holding a foliate form vase adorned with a latticework motif that serves as a sconce for a candle. Our blue and white faience lion candle holder can still be used for lighting, although it would also make a fabulous decorative accessories for a mantel, bookshelf, or small table.

CONDITION: Strong antique condition with slight craquelure and fleabites to some areas. Light buildup, specifically to the interior of the candle holder, is commensurate with age and use. Traces of old restoration work, most noticeably to the base.