3-008-909 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The International Exhibition: vase by M. Poilleux, 1862. 'The art-workmen of Paris, amongst whom we may reckon the house of Poilleux, have long been famous for their bronzes and works of decorative art. Whilst the English were studying comfort, and frequently attaining it by sacrificing every claim to grace and beauty, the French workmen, permeated by a more artistic taste, have been, since the era of Louis XIV., continually progressing in art productions. The consequence is that, in the decorations of our mantelpieces, doors, encoigneurs, and apartments, the French have long surpassed us in cheapness of production and in artistic taste, knowledge of drawing, and modelling displayed'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.