These bleu-célèste vases have been given pronounced Neoclassical mounts in the bold manner of the designer Jean-Charles Delafosse (1734-1789). Mounting either Asian or European porcelain in gilt bronze became a standard and lucrative practice for the Parisian marchands merciers. In this manner, they could enhance a piece or preserve a damaged object. These dealers also invented new models for porcelain by giving them pierced mounts and turning them into incense burners or potpourri holders.
