Antique Italian Tin Glaze Maiolica Urbino Pottery Raphaelli Grotteschi Jar (Code 1945)

A particularly interesting Italian tin glaze jar or vase. It has the Italian form of fleur de lys decoration within a wreath, and there are Raphaelli style grotteschi (grotesques). There also appear to have been serpentine handles which are now removed at the rim line. The style and painting form is very much in line with work from Urbino and Deruta, and it is very likely this item was produced there. The form and painting of the grotteschi are perhaps more in the Urbino style. It appears to be an early example, perhaps as far back as the early 18th century. The potting, foot form and decoration do suggest an early date, it also came with a group of late 17th/early 18th century continental ceramics.

The vase has a mark to the underside in blue. I can't find this referenced and it does not appear to be one of the usual Deruta or Urbino forms, the nearest example is for the workshop of Maestro Giorgio Andreoli, although the time period and form do not seem to match. Similarly decorated examples with serpent type applique are referenced at some of the higher end auction houses as late 16th and early 17th century, although they are generally less exactingly painted. This again may lead to the region being correct with a later dating.

Certainly an interesting piece and perhaps something to research further.



Condition

Handles with significant damage and loss. Glaze losses to rim and foot rim. Glaze flaws from firing and internal white glaze somewhat porridgey in places. Main body and foot intact with no breaks.


Measurements (Approx)

Width: 11 cm ( 4 1/4 inches )

Height: 11 cm ( 4 1/4 inches )

Weight: 354 grams (before packing).



Stock Code: 1945 OC19-2