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82
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LAUGHING SHEEP - c.1930 Rare original domed enamelled advert…
See original version (French)
82
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LAUGHING SHEEP - c.1930 Rare original domed enamelled advert…
See original version (French)
Estimate €6,000 - €12,000
Voluntary lot
Description
LAUGHING SHEEP - c.1930
Rare original domed enamelled advertising plaque. This is the large 49 cm diameter version.
Made by "Émaillerie Alsacienne de Strasbourg".
Signed "d'après Benjamin Rabier".
In very good visual condition - The colours, which are particularly spectacular, are distinguished by their depth, freshness and beautiful luminosity, supported by a good brilliance (very discreet micro-scratches).
The central decoration is perfectly preserved, with no noticeable chips, making it remarkably easy to read.
However, some damage can be seen around the edges, mainly at the rim, with a few chips and areas of oxidation in the metal, which is occasionally slightly attacked with slight loss of material, particularly around the upper fixing hole.
These discreet and localised elements are consistent with the age of the piece and do not detract from the very fine overall presentation.
The story begins in Orgelet in the Jura, where Jules Bel set up as a master refiner at the age of 23 (1865).
He was only 55 when, in 1897, he handed the business over to his two sons, Henri and Léon, aged 29 and 19 respectively.
The company then became "Bel Frères".
In 1897, the company moved to Lons-le-Saunier, taking advantage of its proximity to the railway line and the Montmorot saltworks.
Henri left the company in 1908, and the name was changed to "Léon Bel, Gruyère en gros".
On 16 April 1921, Léon Bel registered the brand name La vache qui rit.
He came up with the idea of using the RVF B70 badge as inspiration to depict a full-length cow with a hilarious expression.
Benjamin Rabier would later leave his indelible mark.
Jura/Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures modified on 05/18/2026 at 11:09 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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