Wedgwood Sage Green Jasperware Urn Vase - The Graces c.1930s

Details

Description

For your consideration... A very special and somewhat hard to procure piece
This elegant urn-form pedestal vessel represents the pinnacle … Read more For your consideration... A very special and somewhat hard to procure piece
This elegant urn-form pedestal vessel represents the pinnacle of Wedgwood's neoclassical artistry. Executed in the coveted sage green jasperware, this exceptional vase captures the eternal beauty of The Graces—those divine embodiments of theater, poetry, dance, and music—frozen forever in elegant white cameo relief beneath a delicately swagged garland.
Provenance & Rarity
Dating to the 1930s, this piece showcases Wedgwood's mastery during their jasperware revival period. The sage green colorway, achieved through chromium oxide, was particularly prized and remains one of the more elusive colors in Wedgwood's palette. Finding pieces in this condition is increasingly rare, making this vase a true collector's treasure.
Dimensions: 5"W × 4.5"D × 6"H
Condition: Superb—no chips, cracks, or restoration
Period: 1930s
Style: Classical Roman, English Traditional
The Art of Jasperware
Named after the mineral jasper for marketing appeal, Wedgwood's exact formula remains a closely guarded secret nearly 250 years later. What we do know is that barium sulphate forms the foundation—approximately 57% of the composition according to 19th-century analysis, combined with ball clay (29%), flint (10%), and barium carbonate (4%).
This sage green achieves its distinctive hue through chromium oxide, creating what Wedgwood originally termed "sea-green." The piece showcases the "dipped" technique, introduced in 1777 when Josiah Wedgwood noted that cobalt "@ 36s. per lb, which is too dear to mix with the clay of the whole grounds." This method applies color only to the surface while maintaining the strength of the white jasper body beneath.
Design & Craftsmanship
The neo-classical styling celebrates the Greco-Roman tradition with The Graces dancing in eternal harmony around the vessel's circumference. Each figure is meticulously detailed, from the flowing drapery to the expressive poses that capture the essence of artistic inspiration. The swagged garland above adds architectural sophistication, creating a sense of movement and celebration befitting the subject matter.
Collecting Notes

Sage green jasperware from this period is increasingly scarce
The Graces motif represents one of Wedgwood's most beloved classical themes
1930s production shows exceptional quality as the company refined their techniques
The urn form was considered among Wedgwood's most prestigious shapes

This piece would be the crown jewel of any jasperware collection or serve as a statement piece in classical, traditional, or even contemporary interiors where its timeless beauty can be properly appreciated.
From a discerning private collection where it has been treasured for decades. See less