Artwork
Vase Design for 'Suite of Vases': Plate 27

Vase Design for 'Suite of Vases': Plate 27 is a drawing by the Baroque artist Jacques François Saly. It dates from 1746 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 2016.58
- Credit line
- Jo Hershey Selden Fund
About this work
The shapes are bold and symmetrical, like a pattern you could carve into metal.
This drawing shows a fancy vase with swirling leaves and flowers. The lines are crisp and black against a plain white background. It looks like a blueprint for making real pottery.
Saly worked in Paris but drew this in 1746. It was part of a set meant to teach craftsmen fancy designs. The shapes are bold and symmetrical, like a pattern you could carve into metal.
If you like this style, check out Jean Bérain’s engravings for a similar look.
Overview
Vase Design for 'Suite of Vases': Plate 27 is a drawing created by Jacques François Saly in 1746. It is a design for a decorative vase, showcasing Saly's skill as a sculptor and his ability to craft intricate designs.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a vase adorned with swirling leaves and flowers, suggesting its intended use as an ornamental piece. The design is characterized by bold, symmetrical shapes, indicating a potential influence on or application in various crafts, including metalwork or pottery.
Technique & Style
The vase design is rendered in crisp, black lines against a plain white background, giving it a blueprint-like quality. This style is reminiscent of other designers of the period, such as Jean Bérain, known for his engravings that share a similar aesthetic.
History & Provenance
Created in 1746 while Saly was working in Paris, this drawing was part of a suite of designs intended to instruct craftsmen in creating elaborate pieces. The work is now held in The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jacques François Joseph Saly, also known as Jacques Saly (20 June 1717 – 4 May 1776), French-born sculptor who worked in France, Italy and Malta.















