Antique 19th Century French Ormolu Mounted Onyx Tazza, Eugène Cornu c.1870

Sculptor Eugène Cornu (1827-1899), originally based at N.29 rue Popincourt in Paris, transitioned from his role as a designer and later director at the esteemed Tahan company to collaborate closely with the “Compagnie des Marbres Onyx d’Algérie,” under the leadership of Gustave Viot, succeeding Alphonse Pallu, located at N.24 boulevard des Italiens. Together, they crafted opulent furniture and art pieces, blending onyx marble and bronze, occasionally incorporating enamel—a pioneering fusion that swiftly captivated affluent collectors. Their joint exhibit at the 1867 Universal Exhibition in Paris showcased exquisite onyx, bronze, and enamel vases (bearing the signature “G. Viot et Cie, Exposition de 1867, Eugène Cornu Inventeur”; Official Catalogue of the Exhibition, group III, class XIV, “luxury furniture,” no. 65), earning them the prestigious Gold Medal (Reports of the International Jury, Universal Exhibition of 1867 in Paris, 1868, vol. III, group III, class XV, chapter II, § 2, pp. 45 & 46). By around 1873, Cornu assumed directorship of the company, which was then renamed “Société des Onyx d’Algérie E. Cornu et Cie.” This moniker, alluding to the onyx quarries the firm exploited near Oran, Algeria, endured until the early 20th century.

CONDITION
In Great Condition – Wear expected with age. Please refer to photographs.

SIZE
Height: 19.5 cm // 7.68 in
Diameter: 29 cm // 11.42 in