Object Description
Large near pair of painted porcelain vases by Royal Vienna
Austrian, Late 19th Century
Height 82cm, width 34cm, depth 34cm
Crafted in the late 19th century, this near pair showcases the superb skills of Austrian artists employed at the Royal Vienna Porcelain Manufactory.
The antiques boast a striking tapering cylindrical form, crowned with tiered dome lids and adorned with intricate gold gilt bands set against rich red, white, and black backgrounds. The decoration features Greek meandros, cartouches, scrolls, and torches, creating a bold visual contrast, while delicate foliate motifs add elegance and balance. Though nearly identical in shape, each vase showcases a unique design.
One vase is dedicated to classical mythology, depicting scenes of Venus sleeping, Venus’s toilet, and Calypso. The other vase features finely detailed reproductions of history paintings by renowned Swiss artist Angelika Kauffman (1741-1807), a founding member of the Royal Academy. Notable scenes include ‘Thusnelda Crowning Hermann’ and Elizabeth Woodville and Edward IV, latter being mistakenly labelled as King Charles V of England.
The Kauffman vase is signed ‘E. Mattheus 1804’, and both vases bear the prestigious Royal Vienna ‘beehive’ mark.
With their exquisite craftsmanship, historical significance, and artistic mastery, these vases make a refined statement in any distinguished collection.