Object Description
Pair of very large glazed earthenware vases by Minton
English, 1876
Height 103cm, width 64cm, depth 54cm
These exceptional vases were crafted by Minton, one of Europe’s foremost producers of ceramics. Crafted from glazed earthenware, the unusual pair are notable for both their towering height and their superb painted designs.
The vases are identical save for the content of the painted motifs that adorn the main body. Set against a contrasting black ground, the bodies are covered with continuous floral imagery, juxtaposing pink magnolia flowers with deep green leaves. On each side, a small butterfly can be seen nesting amongst the foliage. The painted panels are signed ‘W. Mussill’: Mussill was one of the most notable ceramic painters for Minton at the time, joining the company in the 1870s after previously working for the Sèvres manufactory. His signature style renders images of flora and fauna in a gestural, impasto manner, and these vases are a wonderful example of his best work.
The neck, upper body, and foot are adorned with contrasting geometric bands. Utilising a black and burgundy palette with gilded highlights, these linear motifs beautifully contrast with the more painterly designs on the central body. The pair of flanking handles are similarly designed, taking the form of stylised elephants that evoke the Orientalist styles popular at the time. Each vase is set on a circular black plinth.
The vases are stamped to the underside with various hallmarks, including ‘MINTONS’, the date cypher, and the inventory number 1744.
With their monumental size and unusual combination of decorative styles, these vases are a true collector’s item.