Antique Wedgwood Earthenware Vase, Persian Style, Designed by Thomas Allen, 1887
A rare and exquisite Wedgwood earthenware vase, designed by Thomas Allen in October 1887 during his tenure as art director at Wedgwood. This piece exemplifies the fusion of European craftsmanship with Persian artistic influences, reflecting the growing fascination with Oriental aesthetics in late 19th-century Europe.
The vase features a refined baluster form with an elongated neck, lending it an elegant and striking silhouette. The base is adorned with relief panels, depicting Persian infantry, war elephants, and chariots drawn by deer, set against an ivory-toned background. The body is richly decorated with polychrome-painted panels, featuring figural medallions, intricate floral motifs, and classical ornamentation characteristic of Persian design.
The base bears the impressed ''WEDGWOOD'' mark and the dating code ''OKP'', confirming its late 19th-century production and enhancing its artistic and
... historical value. Pieces of this calibre are highly sought after by museums, collectors, and antique ceramics researchers.
Historical Background
During the second half of the 19th century, a growing interest in Oriental aesthetics led many European manufacturers to produce wares in the ''Persian style''. Wedgwood was among the leading firms embracing this movement, producing numerous examples of ''Persian ware'', documented in period catalogues and museum collections. These works are typically attributed to the 1870s–1880s (late Victorian era).
Thomas Allen, one of the most celebrated ceramic artists of the 19th century, joined Wedgwood as art director in 1876, after working for Minton. Under his direction, Wedgwood expanded its range of artistic ceramics, introducing Persian-inspired motifs, floral patterns, vibrant colour accents, gold embellishments, and occasionally craquelure surfaces. Some of his designs also feature multi-figure reliefs, often depicting pastoral or genre scenes influenced by Persian and Islamic decorative traditions. His works are now held in collections such as the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Founded in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood, the company is one of the most prestigious names in British ceramics, renowned for its innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring designs. Wedgwood received numerous royal commissions, including a Royal Warrant from Queen Charlotte, earning the title of ''Potter to Her Majesty.'' Over the centuries, Wedgwood has garnered multiple awards for its exceptional design and craftsmanship.
Measurements
Height: 34.3 cm
Neck Diameter: 7 cm
Base Diameter: 10.5 cm
Widest Diameter: 18 cm
Weight: 1251 g
Condition
Very good antique condition. Minor gold scuffs on the upper and lower part of the neck, but otherwise, the colours remain vibrant, and the vase is exceptionally well-preserved. Please carefully review all photos as they form an integral part of the description.
Shipping & Packaging
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Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1128731
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
Height is 34.3cm (13.5inches)Width is 18cm (7.1inches)Depth is 18cm (7.1inches)
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