A pair of large Theodore Deck faience vases, c. 1880, of inverted baluster shape each on a cream

A pair of large Theodore Deck faience vases, c. 1880, of inverted baluster shape each on a cream coloured ground with scenes of birds amongst blossoming branches, stylised dragon handles, impressed T H Deck heightened in red, some faults, 56cm (2) Joseph-Theodore Deck (1823-1891) is generally regarded as the first of the studio potters. Born in the Alsatian town of Guebwiller, his first ambition was to become a sculptor but his modest background saw him apprenticed to a maitre faiencier in 1842 as a maker of ceramic stoves. Learning his trade throughout Germany, Austria and Hungary, he finally settled in Paris in 1847. By 1856 he had established his own faience workshop in partnership with members of his family. 'Atelier Deck' was popular with painters and sculptors and became a design laboratory promoting ceramics as an artistic form. Deck promoted his wares at the Paris' 1861 Exposition des Produits de l' Industrie and the following year at London's 1862 International Exhibition, where they met with great enthusiasm, three pieces being purchased by the then South Kensington Museum (Victoria and Albert Museum). William Morris described Deck as an eminent practical potter. Due to his abilities and accomplishments within the art industry Deck was made art director of the Sèvres Manufactory in 1887, the first ceramicist to hold this post. Throughout his life Deck was influenced predominately by Persian designs but is also well regarded for his Chinese flambe glazes.