Igniting the passion of mid 19th-century power couple and taste-makers, Queen Victoria and her beloved Prince Albert, the richly glazed and textured earthenware known as majolica flourished among the upper crust and middle class alike. With its whimsical and often pastoral designs alongside exuberant color palettes and fine detailing, majolica was the height of fashion in Victorian homes. 

The love affair with majolica continues today, and with this Antique Majolica Floral Vase plucked from a Paris neighborhood market last month, it's certainly easy to see why! Produced by the historic French potters of St. Clément, and entirely hand-decorated with the rich glazes that have made their work so beloved, this grand vase is sure to make an unforgettable impression. With a majestic stature and luxuriously evocative silhouette, the statuesque vessel is inspired by a fresh bouquet depicted in a delectable palette of soft blue, yellow-green, gentle rose and vivid raspberry. 

The pretty vase is stamped on the underside with St. Clément's early 20th century mark. Founded in 1758 in the village of the same name within the Lorraine region of northeast France, St. Clément's rich history and production of classic French faïence are unmatched. Most recognized today for its novel and whimsical depictions of natural motifs, each discovery only serves to increase our passion and appreciation for the artistry at the heart of their legendary craftsmanship.

Strictly one of a kind and subject to prior sale. In very good antique condition with overall crazing commensurate with age and use. 10.625"H x 6.5"W x 4.875"D.

Learn More About Majolica

Using glazing techniques developed in the Middle East during the 3rd century, combined with whimsical forms originating in 8th century Spain, Victorian Majolica was born in England during the latter half of the 19th century. The Industrial Revolution was creating a middle class with more disposable income and Herbert Minton - a potter in Staffordshire, England, saw the opportunity to introduce something beautiful for the English home. After decades of white ironstone, blue and white china and other drab stoneware, Minton recognized a hunger for something colorful and new. 

Joining forces with French glazing expert, Leon Arnoux, the two visionary ceramicists, introduced majolica at the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London in 1851. Queen Victoria and the public at large became instantly enamored with the new brightly colored, whimsical ware. For the next 40 years, Victorian majolica held a position of prominence at most of the major international exhibitions on both sides of the Atlantic.