Palissy majolica vase with mistletoe, 1880











Rare and large Palissy majolica vase, France, circa 1880. Made on a circular base, the baluster vase with a marbled brown bottom rests. The neck and foot feature motifs inspired by classical antiquity with acanthus leaves, foliate spirals between concave pods. From the upper attachment of the two handles, in the shape of a highly stylized branch, leafy laurel twigs with white berries in relief radiate. All hand painted in typical Palissy colours. Bernard Palissy (c. 1501-1590) was an acclaimed French ceramicist, best known for his "rustic wares." After his death, his pottery style was replicated by a school of imitators and was extremely popular throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Due to the light and fragile nature of the socket, surviving Palissy pieces are few and far between. Really excellent condition despite its age, some chips on the edge of the base.
ID: 9486-1718902508-95080