English Majolica James Hadley Vase of Caparisoned Elephant Carrying a Howdah

Pottery

 

Magnificent, rich color! Modeled by James Hadley, this vase in the form of a caparisoned elephant carrying an elaborate howdah is found in several colors schemes and decorative variations.

James Hadley was best known for the many splendid models he designed while at Royal Worcester Porcelain after coming from Kerr & Binns. After 1875, Hadley set up his own studio and Royal Worcester bought nearly all his production. By 1896, he and his three sons had started their own factory, which too, was eventually purchased by Royal Worcester

According to the book, “Majolica” by Victoria Bergensen, not only is Worcester majolica often times unidentified due to its lack of marks, ( as is the case with much of the production during the Kerr & Binns period), but also that marks have not been recognized.

This vibrant, late nineteenth century polychrome spill vase in the form of a caparisoned elephant is rendered in magnificent detail. The gray elephant having a fuchsia, turquoise and gold enameled caparison, and a turquoise, green, pink and gold gilt howdah and tasseled pillow.

Impressed mark “98” under foot, along with an unidentified crown mark (in grey enamel). There is also a raised mark underneath the elephant toward the back legs which we are unable to decipher. One of the letters may be a “K”

Height is approximately 7-3/4” tall x 9-3/4” long. There is minor roughness and nicks especially along the ears, but this is expected for this type of soft earthenware product. Very slight interior discoloration and overall crazing does not detract from this excellent example. No apparent restoration.

For an example of this model, see the book by David Battie and M. Turner, “19th & 20th Century British Porcelain”.

Item ID: GCE000282