Imperial Amphora Monumental Art Nouveau Vase, Austria, C.1896–1910, 51 Cm

An impressive monumental Imperial Amphora vase, made in Turn-Teplitz, Bohemia, Austria-Hungary, circa 1896–1910, during the celebrated manufactory’s artistic golden age. Its imposing scale, sculptural silhouette and elaborate decoration give it a magnificent ceremonial presence.

The circular factory mark depicts the stylised Austro-Hungarian double-headed eagle, with a shield on its chest and outspread wings, surrounded by the inscription IMPERIAL AMPHORA TURN. Together with the separate crown mark, it identifies the vase with the prestigious Imperial Amphora series. These rare and highly collectible works are particularly sought after for their artistic distinction, technical sophistication and association with the finest years of Bohemian Art Nouveau.

Standing 51 cm high, the vase has an elegant elongated body, a broad shaped rim and a spreading ornamental base. Large openwork handles, enriched with scrolling and stylised foliate details, frame the upper body. Particularly striking is the substantial olive-green pierced collar below the neck, where numerous openings with raised borders create a rich interplay of light and shadow.

The warm cream ground is complemented by olive-green and rose-brown tones, with gilding highlighting the rim and ornamental details. Relief scrolls, beadwork, elongated pendants and stylised foliage lend the decoration a jewel-like richness.

The underside bears the circular IMPERIAL AMPHORA TURN eagle mark, a separate crown, AMPHORA and AUSTRIA marks, model number 12000 and additional factory markings.

Established in 1892 with the support of Alfred Stellmacher, Riessner, Stellmacher & Kessel brought together outstanding designers and craftsmen. Eduard Stellmacher and Paul Dachsel helped shape its distinctive artistic identity. International success at Chicago in 1893 was followed by gold medals at San Francisco in 1894, Paris in 1900 and St Petersburg in 1901, and further recognition at St Louis in 1904. Amphora remains a dedicated field of collecting, represented in museum collections and specialist publications.

Height: 51 cm. Width: 25.5 cm. Depth: 18 cm. Weight: 2595 g.

Excellent condition, with beautifully preserved form, pierced decoration and handles.

Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description. Questions are welcome. The vase will be carefully packed and shipped with full tracking and insurance. Shipping costs include packing materials, labour and postage.