Pierre Roche (Ferdinand Massignon, known as) (1855-1922) The Tadpole (teapot). 1915. Gypsograph. 108 x 110. Very fine and rare proof on thin ivory vellum, dedicated in pencil "to Mr Gérard / affectionately" and signed. Full margins. This engraving is based on a teapot made by the artist: "While Pierre Roche often intended his works for an elite or his circle of friends, his ambition was also to propose a social art form, accessible to a wider public. In keeping with his Art Nouveau approach, he also sought to abolish the hierarchy between major and minor arts. His tadpole teapot is a good example. He made it in pewter for everyday use, but also produced a more luxurious version in silver, to be exhibited at the Salon de la Société nationale des Beaux-Arts. He also produced enamelled plates with ceramist Alexandre Bigot." (Petit Palais, online exhibition "L'esprit Art Nouveau; la donation Pierre Roche au Petit palais", "Decorative Arts" section). The exhibition features three proofs of this subject, in prints of various colors.