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Pottery Pearlware Sponged Spirit Flasks Modeled in Form of Boots, Scottish
$1,612per set
$3,750per set57% Off
£1,204.93per set
£2,803.02per set57% Off
€1,390.31per set
€3,234.27per set57% Off
CA$2,256.64per set
CA$5,249.62per set57% Off
A$2,384.34per set
A$5,546.69per set57% Off
CHF 1,282.50per set
CHF 2,983.47per set57% Off
MX$28,548.61per set
MX$66,412.71per set57% Off
NOK 16,068.17per set
NOK 37,379.43per set57% Off
SEK 14,716.11per set
SEK 34,234.13per set57% Off
DKK 10,381.73per set
DKK 24,151.05per set57% Off
About the Item
Pair of Scottish Pearlware Sponged Pottery 'Boot' Spirit Flasks,
Mid-19th Century,
Circa 1840-1850
This delightful and highly unusual pair of spirit flasks is a wonderful example of Scottish folk pottery from the early Victorian era. Their appeal lies in the charming combination of a whimsical, sculptural form and bold, abstract decoration. Elevated by a distinguished provenance, these flasks are not just ceramic novelties but are tangible artifacts of 19th-century social culture and decorative arts.
Description and Design
Each flask is meticulously modeled in the form of a laced boot, a popular "figural" or novelty shape of the period. The surface is decorated with a vibrant, all-over sponged pattern, with mottled patches of bright blue, pink, and green creating a dynamic and colorful effect.
The underlying ceramic body is Pearlware, a refined earthenware known for its slight bluish tint, which provides a bright ground for the lively decoration. Originally made to hold spirits, their primary function today is as wonderfully sculptural and decorative objects.
Historical Background
Context 🧐
Scottish Potteries and Spongeware: In the mid-19th century, potteries in Scotland—particularly in the regions of Fife and Glasgow—were prolific producers of colorful and affordable earthenware for both domestic use and export. Spongeware (or "spatterware") was a signature decorative technique. It was a fast and inexpensive method of applying color by dabbing a sponge onto the ceramic body, resulting in the spontaneous, abstract patterns that are now highly prized by collectors of folk pottery.
The Novelty Spirit Flask: Before the age of mass-produced glass bottles, pottery flasks were a common sight for carrying spirits. Potters created them in a huge variety of figural and novelty shapes—from books and pistols to political figures and, as seen here, boots. These objects were a form of personal expression and often served as conversation pieces. The boot was a particularly popular form, evoking themes of travel, trade, and the common working man.
Distinguished Provenance: The history of this pair is notably elevated by its provenance, having been in the collection of Ambassador and Mrs. Joseph Verner Reed. The Reed collection was renowned for its quality, taste, and sophistication, marking these flasks as exceptional examples of their type.
Details and Provenance
Provenance:
J. Sewell, London.
Ambassador and Mrs. Joseph Verner Reed.
Dimensions: 7 1/2 inches high x 6 inches wide (19.05 cm×15.24 cm).
(Ref: NY8556-pan)
- Dimensions:Height: 7.5 in (19.05 cm)Width: 6 in (15.24 cm)Depth: 2 in (5.08 cm)
- Sold As:Set of 2
- Style:Early Victorian (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1840-1850
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Downingtown, PA
- Reference Number:Seller: ny8556-panx1stDibs: LU86107336513
About the Seller
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