French Bavent Floppy-Ear Rabbit, Large White-Glazed Ceramic Figure

A substantial hand-modeled ceramic rabbit in a relaxed crouching pose, one long ear sweeping dramatically forward across the body while the other trails back along the haunch — the hallmark silhouette of the Bavent tradition from Normandy, France. The modeling shows real anatomical confidence: the soft swell of the flank, the tuck of the forepaws, the subtle surface ridges suggesting fur along the shoulders and rump. Inset red glass eyes give the piece its arresting presence, catching light against the soft milk-white glaze. At eighteen inches long and nearly ten pounds, this reads as a serious decorative object rather than a shelf trinket.

The exterior carries a white tin or lead glaze consistent with the Bavent earthenware tradition, which flourished in the Calvados region of Normandy from the 18th century through the mid-20th century and is known for its richly modeled animal figures in cream and white glazes. The underside is open and unglazed, revealing a warm buff earthenware clay body and hand-finished interior walls consistent with slip-cast or press-molded artisan construction. The piece is unmarked, which is not unusual for Bavent ware — many pieces left the workshops without a maker's stamp.

CONDITION

Good. No damage noted. Light surface specking and minor glaze pinholing throughout are consistent with age and the hand-finished character of the piece. Glass eyes are intact and securely set.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Overall: 7.5" H × 18" W × 14" D
• Weight: 9 lbs 11 oz
• Material: Glazed earthenware with inset red glass eyes
• Markings: Unmarked