Neoclassical Phanolith Vase - Villeroy & Boch - C. 1899

Phanolith vase with two handles decorated with scenes from the Trojan War.

Villeroy & Boch's Mettlach Phanolith vases are ceramic works of art created in the late 19th century at the Mettlach manufactory in Germany. They are made of Phanolith, a type of semi-translucent porcelain developed by the artist Jean-Baptiste Stahl. This technique combines the characteristics of English jasperware and French pâte-sur-pâte, creating delicate white reliefs on a colored background, often blue or pale green, with a subtle translucency effect.

First presented at the 1900 Paris World's Fair, these vases were praised for their artistic and technical finesse, receiving the Gold Medal. Their decorations are often inspired by mythology, rural scenes, or naturalistic motifs. Today, these vases are highly sought after by collectors for their rarity and beauty.

Phanolith Mettlach vase by Villeroy & Boch.
Circa 1898/1899.
Good general condition, signs of wear. Height: 36 cm