Value and quotation of works, ceramics by Théodore Deck

If you own a piece by or in the style of the artist Théodore Deck, and would like to know its value, our state-approved experts and auctioneers will offer you their appraisal services. Our specialists will carry out a free appraisal of your ceramics, and provide you with a precise estimate of its current market value. Then, if you wish to sell your piece, we'll guide you towards the best possible arrangement to obtain the optimum price.

Rating and artist's value Théodore Deck

Théodore Deck is a French ceramist well known to earthenware enthusiasts. If you own one, it may be worth more than you think. On the art market, his works can fetch very high prices under the auctioneer's hammer.

His ceramics are particularly sought-after, with prices on the art market ranging from €30 to €66,300, a fairly substantial range, but one that speaks volumes about the value that can be attributed to Théodore Deck's work.

In 2013, a pair of earthenware "elephant" vases sold for €66,300 against an estimate of €30,000-40,000.

Order of value from simple earthenware to the most prestigious

Style and technique of the artist Théodore Deck

Théodore Deck developed a style all his own: green and a turquoise nuanced with touches of violet, which came to be known as "Deck blue", were his favorite colors. He was a precursor of Art Nouveau, but no particular movement is associated with him. He is one of those artists whose work is a reference in itself.

Théodore Deck, from Alsace to the Manufacture de Sèvres

Théodore Deck (1829-1900), a French artist, became a key figure in French ceramics, and quickly became a worldwide figure.

There's no real trend to his work, but over the course of his career he developed his own technique and distinctive style.

He was born in Alsace, in the Haut Rhin department. As a child, he was drawn to the sciences. He decided early on to become a ceramist, influenced by the work of a potter in Switzerland. He apprenticed with a potter, where he learned various techniques, including inlaying colored pastes. He also drew and worked with sculptors. Following in the footsteps of his peers, he toured Germany to learn more techniques, following in the footsteps of the King of Cologne and the kaolin deposits. This trip brought him prestigious commissions.

He then left for Paris, where he worked for a succession of workshops until the revolution of 1848. His brother joined him in Paris, where they founded the Deck factory. He then took part in various exhibitions, including the 1862 Universal Exhibition and the Industrial Arts Exhibition. He also exhibited throughout Europe. He also wrote to share his knowledge and work on ceramics. Four years before his death, he was appointed director of the Manufacture de Sèvres, leaving the management of the factory to his brother and his descendants.

The value of his works 

In the eyes of art experts and collectors, Théodore Deck is remarkable for his artistic singularity. His inspiration continued to grow throughout his career, and his art remained innovative to the very end. The majority of his works are held in private collections, which is why they can be found on the auction market.

Recognizing Théodore Deck's signature

Théodore Deck's ceramics are usually signed and dated on the back. He signs "TH. DECK". However, as his work is little mastered and copied, it is important to consult an expert.

Knowing the value of a work

If you happen to own a work by or after Théodore Deck, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal using the form on our website. A member of our team of experts and certified auctioneers will contact you promptly to provide you with an estimate of the market value of your work, as well as any relevant information about it. If you're thinking of selling your work, our specialists will also be on hand to offer you alternatives for selling it at the best possible price, taking into account market trends.