Mason's Ironstone Blue and White Hexagonal Covered Potpourri Jars

Details

Description

Hexagonal Ironstone Vases & Covers,
Mason's Ironstone or Ashworth,
Circa 1845.

A stunning and elegant pair of large, probably Mason's … Read more Hexagonal Ironstone Vases & Covers,
Mason's Ironstone or Ashworth,
Circa 1845.

A stunning and elegant pair of large, probably Mason's Ironstone, blue and white hexagonal ironstone potpourri vases and covers finely decorated with underglaze blue flowering branches with peony flower heads and flower buds highlighted in gold.

Each is surmounted by pierced bell-form covers terminating in foo dog finials, and to the sides are handles in the form of stylized dolphins. The vases with pierced covers to allow the small of the potpourri to permeate the room.

Dimensions: 22 inches high x 12 inches wide x 12 inches deep, (55.88cm high x 30.48cm wide).

Condition: Good one vases has a short line to the neck on the reverse.

Historical Context: Ironstone and Mid-Victorian Export Style

Ironstone China: This piece is made from Ironstone, a durable, opaque earthenware developed in the early 19thcentury British potters, most notably Charles James Mason. Ironstone was designed to be strong and suited for large, decorative pieces intended for grand display.

Decorative Style: The vases represent the mid-Victorian revival of Chinoiserie. Their hexagonal shape and blue and white floral pattern directly imitate high-quality 18th -century Chinese porcelain. The addition of the gilded accents, the Chinese-style Foo Dog finials, and the European-style dolphin handles shows the eclectic mixing of global design motifs popular in British ceramics of the 1840s. These large-scale potpourri vases were prominent, valuable pieces intended for the drawing rooms and sideboards of wealthy homes.

Reference:
Samlesbury Hall Anniversary Exhibition and Sale of Mason's Patent Ironstone China, 17th January–February 8, 1987, Lot 55 (For similar shape).

(Ref: NY10610-cirr) See less