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Dutch Delft Polychrome Model of a Cow

$2,030
£1,546.46
€1,783.31
CA$2,875.54
A$3,087.61
CHF 1,661.39
MX$36,538.90
NOK 20,930.45
SEK 19,089.74
DKK 13,324.51

About the Item

De Gilde-os: A Celebratory Dutch Delft Cow, Polychrome Pastoral: Dutch Delftware, Circa 1760 This captivating Dutch Delftware cow model, dating to circa 1760, is an exceptional example of polychrome (multi-colored) pottery from the Netherlands' most famous ceramic center. The figure depicts a standing cow, richly decorated with garlands of hand-painted flowers draped around her neck and body. The cow stands on a hollow, rectangular base with canted corners, painted in vibrant green to represent lush grass. Adding a touch of whimsical allegory, a large green frog is prominently featured on the ground nestled between the cow's legs. The entire piece is rendered in a lively palette, a departure from the typical blue and white Delft, showcasing the artistic skill and imaginative storytelling of the Delft potters. Historical Context: The Guild Ox Tradition This figure is a direct ceramic homage to the famous Dutch Gilde-os (Guild Ox) parade, a grand annual tradition dating back to the 17th century. Organized by the Butcher's Guild on the feast day of St. Luke, the celebration featured the finest bull or cow, lavishly adorned with ribbons, floral garlands, and gilded horns, before it was ceremonially butchered for a grand feast. This opulent parade became a national symbol of celebration and abundance, encapsulated in the Dutch saying, "De gilde-os is op parade." The presence of the frog on the base is more than just decoration; it likely alludes to Dutch proverbs and allegories regarding the ephemeral nature of life. In folklore, the toad (or frog) often symbolizes mortality, subtly referencing the ultimate, and swift, fate of the beautifully adorned ox—the hidden danger lurking in the grass. Origin: Delft, Holland Period: Circa 1760 (Mid-18th Century) Medium: Tin-Glazed Earthenware (Delftware) Decoration: Polychrome, Floral Garlands, Gilt Accents Dimensions: 6 1/2 inches high x 9 1/4 inches wide Provenance: Property from a Pennsylvania Collection; formerly with Newby Antiques, London (1985). (Ref: NY10790-nmix))
  • Creator:
    Delft (Manufacturer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 6.5 in (16.51 cm)Width: 9.25 in (23.5 cm)Depth: 3.5 in (8.89 cm)
  • Style:
    Rococo (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1760
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Downingtown, PA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: NY10790-nmix1stDibs: LU861045106482

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