What is the difference between majolica and faience?

Majolica generally refers to Italian or Victorian tin-glazed earthenware known for brightly coloured lead-based glazes and sculptural relief modelling. Faience is a broader European term often associated with tin-glazed pottery from France and Germany. Both techniques involve coating an earthenware body in an opaque white glaze before painting detailed designs directly onto the surface.

Where were these decorative vases displayed?

Victorian and Edwardian interiors accommodated these large earthenware vessels on mantelpieces, pedestals, and side tables as focal points of reception rooms. Monumental urns and pairs of ewers often occupied prominent positions in entrance halls. Smaller cabinet vases and miniature Satsuma pieces were housed within glass-fronted display cases to protect their delicate enamel and gilt surfaces.

How should I clean antique earthenware vases?

Dust these ceramic objects gently with a dry, soft-bristled brush to prevent particulate buildup on fragile painted and gilded surfaces. Avoid using water, liquid cleaners, or abrasive cloths, as moisture can penetrate old glaze crackle or damage gold leaf. Display the vases away from direct sunlight and areas prone to heavy temperature fluctuations to preserve the stability of the earthenware body.