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Pair of Flaxman Ewers in Black Basalt. Wedgwood C1830.

$8,500List Priceper set

About the Item

One of the iconic early wedgwood pieces, the pair of ewers Sacred to Neptune Sacred to Bacchus was designed by Flaxman in the 1780s for Josiah Wedgwood. They have remained popular ever since, and are found in many different materials. Here they are seen in the black basalt that Flaxman intended. John Flaxman (1755–1826) was a prominent English sculptor, illustrator, and draughtsman, best known for his neoclassical style and contributions to the arts during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, particularly his work for Joiah Wedgwood, where he was one of the principal sculptors. Flaxman's work spanned a variety of media, including sculpture, drawings, and illustrations, and he played a significant role in reviving interest in classical art and literature during his time. Born in York, England, Flaxman displayed artistic talent from a young age. He trained at the Royal Academy of Arts in London, where he studied under the guidance of the famous sculptor, Antonio Canova. Flaxman's exposure to classical art and literature greatly influenced his artistic style and themes throughout his career. Flaxman's sculptures are characterized by their simplicity, elegance, and adherence to classical principles. He often depicted figures from Greek mythology, ancient literature, and biblical stories, imbuing them with a sense of grace and idealization. His sculptural works include monuments, funerary sculptures, and reliefs, many of which are displayed in prominent institutions and public spaces around the world. Flaxman's influence extended beyond his artistic endeavors. He was a key figure in the cultural and intellectual circles of his time, and his work helped shape the neoclassical movement in art and literature. His dedication to classical ideals and his innovative approach to sculpture and illustration left a lasting impact on subsequent generations of artists and scholars.

Creator:
Wedgwood (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 14.97 in (38 cm)Width: 7.88 in (20 cm)Depth: 5.91 in (15 cm)
Sold As:
Set of 2
Style:
Neoclassical (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Stoneware,Molded
Place of Origin:
England
Period:
Early 19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1830
Condition:
Repaired: Each ewer has professional repairs. The heads have been detached and put back in place. The restoration is of a high quality and not visible to the naked eye.
Seller Location:
Melbourne, AU
Reference Number:
Seller: 12541stDibs: LU3151338252452

Shop All Wedgwood

Wedgwood

Arguably the most celebrated of all English ceramics makers, Wedgwood was founded in 1759 by potter Josiah Wedgwood (1730–95) in Staffordshire, which was home at one time to hundreds of pottery workshops. The company is famed for its Jasperware — molded neoclassical stoneware vases, plates and other pieces inspired by ancient cameo glass, featuring white figures, scenes and decorative elements set in relief on a matte-colored background. The best-known background hue is light blue, but Wedgwood’s iconic silhouettes also appear on green, lilac, yellow, black and even white grounds. Some antique Wedgwood dinnerware pieces and other items feature three or more colors.

The Wedgwood firm first came to prominence for its tableware, which quickly gained favor in aristocratic households throughout Britain and Europe. In 1765, Wedgwood was commissioned to create a cream-colored earthenware service for Queen Charlotte, consort of King George III. The queen was so thrilled with her new china that Wedgwood was given permission to call himself “Potter to Her Majesty,” and the decorative style became known as Queen’s Ware.

Not to be outdone, Catherine the Great of Russia commissioned her own set of Wedgwood china in 1773. Nearly 200 years later, the firm created a 1,200-piece service for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. In recent years, leading designers including Jasper Conran and Vera Wang have collaborated with Wedgwood — in the tradition of such distinguished 18th-century artists such as the painter George Stubbs and metalsmith Matthew Boulton.

From plates and other dinnerware to decorative items like urns, cachepots and candlesticks, Wedgwood designs lend a traditional air to Anglophile interiors. And even if you have to make your own tea, you may find it comforting to sip it from a delicate cup that was manufactured in the same Stoke-on-Trent kiln that produced Her Majesty’s tea service. Be sure to keep your pinky raised.

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