Antique Italian Majolica Albarello – Polychrome Floral Vase With Butterfly Motif, 17th–18th Century.

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This enchanting antique Italian majolica albarello is a captivating small vase, showcasing the vibrant polychrome tradition of Baroque-era Italian faience.

… Read more This enchanting antique Italian majolica albarello is a captivating small vase, showcasing the vibrant polychrome tradition of Baroque-era Italian faience.

Handcrafted from tin-glazed earthenware, the piece features a classic waisted cylindrical form with a gently flared rim and flat base – typical of pharmacy jars (albarelli) used in 17th–18th century apothecaries or as decorative household items. The thick, creamy white tin glaze serves as a luminous canvas for lively underglaze painting in a rich palette: antimony yellow for bold flowers and accents, cobalt blue for centers and wings, copper green for lush foliage, and manganese brown for outlines and urn details.

The central motif depicts a stylized yellow urn overflowing with a bouquet of large yellow blooms (centered in deep blue), framed by scrolling green leaves, tendrils, and smaller yellow blossoms. Delightful butterfly motifs – with yellow wings edged in blue and black bodies – flutter among the vines, adding a whimsical, naturalistic charm rare in simpler provincial pieces. The design wraps fluidly around the body, creating a joyful, garden-inspired composition full of movement and color. See less