Antique Highlight: Black Forest Solifleur Vase

This week at French Metro Antiques, we are featuring a stunning hand-carved solifleur vase that captures the essence of the Black Forest style.

While many people associate these intricate carvings with Germany, the tradition actually has its roots in the village of Brienz, Switzerland. It was there that master woodcarvers turned a local craft into a world-renowned art form, and this piece is a beautiful example of that Swiss heritage.

This particular piece stands two feet tall and was designed as a solifleur, or bud vase. It is incredibly rare to find a piece of this age that still retains its original, multi-faceted crystal insert. Furthermore, the carvings are exceptionally detailed, featuring two sculpted hunting dogs at the base of a tree with outstretched leaves.

What makes this vase a truly fascinating  find is the provenance located at the base. It is signed by the artist, B. Ruef, or Ruef Brothers, and dated 1942. Finding a Swiss carving that is precisely dated to the mid-twentieth century gives us a rare, documented link to the artist during a pivotal moment in European history. 

It’s a soulful, hand-carved treasure that bridges the gap between nature and fine art!

Leave a comment

Name *

Email *

Comment *