Technical Description
A stunning pair of Royal Worcester porcelain fruit or stem vases dating to 1869, used as centre pieces on large 19th century tables.
An exceptionally rare pair which you won't find on any other web site. The only other pair (unpainted) that we are aware of, are in the V&A London.
The long bases are decorated with shells, some painted, which are water troughs which would have held small flowers such as carnations or stemed fruits such as grapes. The larger shells to the front would have been for your Potpourri of the day. One piece also features a painted lizard, the male is holding a puppy on his lap and the female is gesturing to the lizard below.
They have the Victorian diamond registration marks dating them to exactly 1869 and are impressed with the Royal Worcester mark. Both are also marked Phillips and Pearce Bond Street for the London establishment where they would be sold.
Date & Origin
London, England, 11th of August 1869. Period of Victoria.
Condition
Excellent, no chips cracks or restoration.
Dimensions
Height: 22.7cm Width: 47cm Depth: 14.7cm.
Historical Context
Hand-blown around the time Sainsbury's first store opened, in Drury Lane, London on the 22nd of May 1869.