Spanish Catalan Faience Hunting Subject Tile Picture

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Description

"The Hare Hunt": 18th-Century Spanish Catalan Faience Tile Picture
(Barcelona)

A spirited and charming late 18th-century Spanish faience (tin-glazed earthenware) … Read more "The Hare Hunt": 18th-Century Spanish Catalan Faience Tile Picture
(Barcelona)

A spirited and charming late 18th-century Spanish faience (tin-glazed earthenware) tile panel, originating from the ceramic center of Barcelona, Catalonia.

Composed of nine individually hand-painted tiles, the central scene depicts a lively hunting narrative: a huntsman in period dress takes aim with his musket at a large hare, while his eager hound gives chase across a stylized landscape. In the background, a rustic cottage nestles among trees, painted in the characteristic Catalan palette of manganese, ochre, green, and blue.

The central scene is framed by a delightful border of yellow scrolling foliage, punctuated by eight circular medallions (roundels). These vignettes cleverly repeat the main characters of the story in isolation: the rabbit, the dog, the hunter, and the house, creating a cohesive visual storytelling device.

Condition: Good antique condition. The glaze remains glossy with the vibrant colors typical of Spanish faience. Note: Typical minor chips and fritting to the edges of the tiles (expected for 18th-century architectural ceramics that were once installed in a wall). The tiles are now securely mounted in a later wooden frame.

Measurements:
Frame Height: 17 1/2 inches (44.5 cm)
Frame Width: 17 1/4 inches (43.8 cm)
Frame Depth: 1 3/4 inches (4.4 cm)
Tile Size: Each tile approx. 4 3/4 inches square (12.1 cm)

Historical Context: Catalan tile pictures, or plafons, were a popular decorative feature in 18th-century Spanish homes, often used in kitchens, dining areas, or stairwells. Unlike the formal religious subjects of earlier centuries, these secular panels celebrated daily life, rural activities, and humor. The "Arts and Crafts" style of painting—bold, direct, and colorful—is highly sought after by collectors of folk art and European ceramics.

(Ref: NY10399-mmrx) See less