A porcelain vase from the Manufacture nationale de Sèvres was presented to the BIPM to mark the 150th anniversary of the Metre Convention. The vase was delivered at the BIPM headquarters in Sèvres by Mr Gabin Combes this month.

The object reflects the long-standing link between the BIPM and Sèvres, where the organization has been based since its establishment in 1875.

The vase

The vase is a “Clermont” model traditionally used for official presentations. It features a deep cobalt blue ground (“bleu de Sèvres”) with gold decoration, and includes references to international measurement cooperation, including the 150th anniversary emblem, the SI logo, and the inscription “Convention du Mètre”.

The design draws on historical precedents. In 1872, porcelain vases produced by the Manufacture nationale de Sèvres were presented at the initiative of the President of the French Republic to members of the International Metre Commission, which laid the foundations for the Metre Convention.

The commemorative vase will be preserved at the BIPM as part of the objects marking the 150th anniversary of the Metre Convention.