A Majolica Ceramic Swan or Duck Jardinière

This exquisite Majolica ceramic jardinière, crafted in the form of a swan or duck, is a remarkable example of early 20th-century Belgian pottery. The piece features intricate detailing, with the head and neck painted in a darker glaze, contrasting with the wings and body in a lighter, crackle-glazed white. The visible craquelure suggests its age and adds character to the piece. An inscribed number "166" on the underside likely indicates the model or pattern number used by the manufacturer, although it lacks a specific maker's mark.

Condition Report

Overall, this Majolica jardinière is in very good condition, with minimal wear consistent with its age and use. The underside exhibits typical wear and some residue from years of holding plants or flowers, but it remains free from any significant chips or cracks. The craquelure on the lighter parts of the glaze is a natural result of the aging process and adds to its historical authenticity and charm. The darker glaze on the head and neck remains vibrant, with no significant fading observed.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.620kg, Length: 25cm, Width: 11cm, Height: 16cm.

A Decorative Jardinière

This piece was originally intended as a jardinière, a decorative container for holding plants or flowers. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, such items were popular for adorning parlours and conservatories. The swan or duck motif would have introduced a nature-inspired elegance to any setting, making it an attractive and functional decorative art piece of its time.

Majolica Style: Vibrant and Distinctive

Majolica pottery is celebrated for its bright colours and distinctive glazing methods. Originating in the 19th century, it became highly sought after for its ornamental appeal. This jardinière exemplifies the Majolica style with its detailed modelling and vibrant glaze, which were characteristic of the period's aesthetic preferences. The use of contrasting glazes highlights the intricate craftsmanship typical of Majolica ceramics from this era.

The Craft of Majolica Pottery

Majolica pottery involves a detailed and intricate process of crafting and glazing. The creation of this jardinière would have started with shaping the base form, followed by the application of vibrant glazes unique to Majolica. The crackle glaze technique applied to the body adds texture and visual interest, while the deeper glaze on the head and neck demonstrates the skill required to produce such distinct and lasting finishes.

Maker: Unattributed but Characteristic

Although this piece lacks a specific maker's mark, the style and craftsmanship suggest it was produced by one of the many Belgian potteries active during the early 1900s. These potteries often marked their pieces with numbers for design cataloguing, as seen with the "166" inscribed on this jardinière. The absence of a definitive maker's mark is not uncommon, yet the quality and style are indicative of Belgian artisanship from this period.

Collected by Fans of Majolica Design

Majolica ceramics have been prized by collectors for their artistic and historical significance since their inception. The unique glazing techniques and vibrant colours that define the style are key attractions for collectors. This jardinière represents a fine example of the decorative art that was highly sought after in its time. Collectors value such pieces for their ability to convey the rich artistic traditions of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, making them desirable additions to collections worldwide.