W. Schiller & Sohn - Vase (2) - Stoneware

Pair of WS&S vases, corresponding to Majolikafabrik W. Schiller (& Sohn) Austria

Material: hand-painted ceramic stoneware
Manufacture: Majolikafabrik W. Schiller (& Sohn)
Period: early 20th century
Country of origin: Austria
Provenance: Private collection
Good condition for age and use
Dimensions: 12 x 11 x 11 cm

Spectacular pair of small vases or crater-like vessels in ceramic with a black matte background and red-figure decoration, a fine-grained ceramic stoneware with a dull black unglazed finish.

Both take the form of small crater-like vases with two raised handles. The shape and the decorative frieze motifs are directly inspired by the engravings of classical antiquities compiled by Sir William Hamilton in the 18th century.

The winged figures painted with terracotta enamel represent the Erotes, small Cupid-like figures of allegorical scenes in classical mythology, devoted to love, festivity, and courtship. They emulate the red-figure vases of ancient Greece. WS&S used glaze pigments mixed with liquid clay fixed in the kiln to achieve this textured matte finish.

At the end of the 18th century there was a revival of classical forms in all aspects of art and design, driven mainly by the printing press, which allowed the upper classes to access freshly translated editions of ancient mythology and philosophy. The growing imperialism of the British aristocracy was reflected in stories of ancient Rome, as a continuation of this Romantic era.

The Austrian manufacture was founded in 1850 in Obergrund, Austria by Wilhelm Schiller. Two years later WS&S was founded, with his son.
Specialized in earthenware and glazed ceramic or majolica pieces. Plant and zoomorphic decorations were the most common motifs.

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