Large Italian Levantino-Style Potiche from La Fenice, Albisola, Italy

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Large (cm 42 high ) ceramic potiche, hand-decorated in the celebrated Levantino style, one of the most distinctive historical decorations … Read more Large (cm 42 high ) ceramic potiche, hand-decorated in the celebrated Levantino style, one of the most distinctive historical decorations in the tradition of Albisola and Savona. This decoration, which appeared in the second half of the 17th century and flourished in the 18th, owes its name to the Levantino family of ceramists, active in the Savona area. Its main features include small sketched characters, often noble figures (like the knights and ladies visible on the plate), soldiers, farmers, or small animals. The figures are set in simple, stylized landscapes composed of small trees, farmhouses, birds in flight, and subtle plant elements.
The design is rapid and "calligraphic," almost a quick sketch on a white majolica background. Originally made in a monochrome blue or manganese (purple-brown) color, it later evolved into polychrome versions. The piece pictured is a refined manganese, yellow & green version.
The Levantine style draws inspiration from the engravings of French artist Jacques Callot, known for his grotesque figures and folk scenes rich in minute, dynamic details. Even today, historic Albisola manufacturers such as Mazzotti, Guarino, and Ernan continue to reproduce this classical style.

The base bears the signature of the important and renowned manufacturer LA FENICE. See less