➤ Item Condition :Good - Lightly used, with very light scratches, or minor cosmetic wear, but has no structural issues. Most antique and vintage items fit this condition.
➤ Restoration Work & Modifications :No restorations or modifications have been made
➤ Product stock :In France
➤ Delivery information, number of packages:1
Description :
A charming and highly decorative French majolica asparagus serving platter dating from the late 19th century, circa 1890.
This unusual serving piece is beautifully modelled in the naturalistic manner so characteristic of French barbotine ceramics of the period. The centre is formed as a generous bundle of white asparagus spears arranged in a raised cradle, their delicately modelled tips highlighted with subtle shades of mauve, green and purple. Fine brown painted bands and small individual details accentuate the remarkably realistic appearance of the asparagus.
The surrounding platter is richly decorated in relief with overlapping leaves and vegetable forms, covered with wonderfully vibrant turquoise, emerald and celadon green glazes together with warm ochre and brown tones. Sculptural curved handles emerge organically from the foliage at either end, adding to the playful trompe-l’œil character of the piece.
Asparagus serving dishes became particularly fashionable in France during the second half of the 19th century, when many important ceramic manufacturers produced elaborate tableware specifically designed for serving this prized vegetable.
The underside bears painted workshop marks or monograms, although the precise manufacturer has not been conclusively identified.
A wonderful example of late 19th-century French majolica, both highly decorative and evocative of the elaborate dining traditions of the Belle Époque.
France, circa 1890.
Dimensions : H. 9.5 cm / 3.7 in. –Ø 27 cm / 10.6 in.
