Beautiful Aesthetic Movement jug c1880
This majolica jug was probably made in France or England c1880. It has moulded decoration of cherry blossoms, birds and insects within panels of bamboo and a moulded bamboo handle. These design motifs were inspired by Japanese objects, which came to typify the Aesthetic Movement in Western Europe, used on lacquer screens, silk panels and even in the paintings of Van Gogh, as well as faience wares like this. Clearly a 'second' when it was made, the jug has a firing crack and the sides have slightly slumped inwards in the kiln, and yet this jug, with its patchy olive-brown glaze has survived for around 150 years!
Following the 1858 Anglo-Japanese Treaty of Amity and Commerce, trade with Japan began again, after a period of over 200 years of Japanese self-imposed isolation. Many new Japanese objects reached Great Britain and a fascination with Japanese style began which lasted until the end of the 19th century and into the early-20th century, influencing the design and decoration of ceramics, furniture and architecture.
- Height approx. 15cm
- Width approx. 17.5cm including handle
- Depth approx. 6.5cm
