Italian Cantagalli Renaissance Revival Majolica Ewer & Vase, Florence, C.1890

An elegant pair of Italian Renaissance Revival tin-glazed majolica vessels produced by the Cantagalli pottery in Florence during the lifetime of its founder, Ulisse Cantagalli (1839–1901), circa 1890. Comprising a sculptural ewer and a matching scalloped-rim vase, the pair reflects the finest traditions of Renaissance Italian maiolica that brought the factory international recognition in the late nineteenth century.

The ewer is fitted with a striking heron or stork handle, while the accompanying vase follows the same balanced baluster form with a scalloped rim and pedestal foot. Both pieces are hand-painted in the classic Raffaellesco style with fantastic birds, a winged siren, scrolling acanthus foliage and grotesques, highlighted by geometric ornament in cobalt blue, ochre yellow, copper green and manganese.

The undersides bear early freehand underglaze Cantagalli cockerel (Gallo) marks painted by different workshop artists, one in manganese black and the other in cobalt blue. Neither mark includes later export inscriptions such as "Italy" or "Made in Italy". As many Cantagalli models remained in production for decades, dating relies on the factory marks together with the painting style, glaze and manufacturing characteristics. These features place the pair within the highly regarded early Ulisse Cantagalli period.

Dimensions:

• Ewer: Weight 469 g

• Height 22 cm. Vase: Weight 293 g

• Height 16.5 cm

Condition:

The ewer remains in excellent antique condition, with only a few small chips to the sculptural bird handle. The accompanying vase has minor enamel chips to the upper rim and foot rim but is otherwise in excellent condition. Ultraviolet examination revealed no evidence of restoration or repair.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.