Antique Victorian Etruscan Revival Lustreware Jugs from Sappho, England, 1880, Set of 2

Details

Description

Pair of Antique Victorian Sappho Lustre Classical Jugs, England, 19th Century

A striking pair of antique Victorian glazed ceramic jugs … Read more Pair of Antique Victorian Sappho Lustre Classical Jugs, England, 19th Century

A striking pair of antique Victorian glazed ceramic jugs in the classical Sappho style, dating from the second half of the 19th century.

Each jug has an elegant baluster-shaped body with a high angular handle and shaped pouring spout. The ivory-glazed earthenware is decorated with transfer-printed classical motifs enriched with areas of copper and honey lustre. The selectively applied lustre creates a subtle metallic sheen that changes beautifully with the light and contrasts with the softly crazed white ground.

Oval classical medallions depict seated female figures accompanied by an amphora, surrounded by geometric and foliate borders inspired by ancient Greek and Etruscan ornament. The angular handles are similarly decorated with stylised floral motifs, reinforcing the distinctly Etruscan Revival character of the pair.

Condition:
Antique condition with overall crazing, surface wear and rubbing/losses to the transfer and lustre decoration consistent with age. The metallic lustre within one of the principal medallions is notably worn, resulting in a lighter appearance than its counterpart. One jug also has a substantial historic hairline/crack extending through the base and body, as clearly photographed. One jug has dark stained inside. The pair nevertheless displays beautifully and is offered primarily for decorative use.

Dimensions, each approximately:
Height: 22 cm
Width including handle and spout: 16 cm
Base diameter: 10 cm

England, 19th century. Sold as a pair. See less