Large Porcelain Fruit Bowl. Carl Thieme. Potschappel, Germany. Late 19th Century

Large porcelain fruit bowl produced by the Carl Thieme factory in Potschappel, Germany, in the late 19th century. It is a remarkable example of prestigious decorative porcelain from the Historicist period, combining exceptional modeling virtuosity, an imposing sculptural composition featuring multiple figures, and a rich, hand-painted polychrome decoration enhanced with gilding.

The openwork bowl, with its dynamic shape, is adorned with finely molded cartouches, floral garlands, and bouquets painted in the grand tradition of Saxon porcelain. Its scalloped rim is embellished with elegant scrollwork and gilded highlights, lending the piece a monumental and refined presence.

The pedestal takes the form of a large sculpted group depicting allegorical figures dressed in 18th-century costumes, arranged around a flowering tree. A profusion of modeled flowers, foliage, and ornaments inspired by the Rococo style creates a dynamic design characteristic of Carl Thieme’s finest works. The finesse of the figures’ modeling, the delicacy of the faces, the architectural complexity of the base, and the richness of the decoration attest to the very high level of mastery of the manufactory’s sculptors and painters.

These large centerpieces were intended to adorn the reception halls of palaces and aristocratic residences. Thanks to the exceptional quality of its craftsmanship and the expressive power of its sculptural composition, this work is a first-rate piece for collectors of European porcelain.

Manufacturer’s mark:
Blue mark on the underside consisting of the letter T combined with the Saxon cross, corresponding to the Carl Thieme porcelain manufactory in Potschappel, Germany.

Dimensions:
Height: 52 cm.
Width: 35 cm.

Condition:
Good condition.

ID-ANTQ-1371