Stunning Monumental Antique German Royal Bonn Franz Mehlem Green Wreath & Black Jardiniere

Pottery : Antique : Majolica : German

 

What a gorgeous and HUGE piece of art pottery this is—and made by one of the most sought-after and esteemed art pottery producers of the last century, namely Franz Mehlem of Royal Bonn in Bonn, Germany! Swags of foliage, ribbons and bows, wreaths, and garlands all in lovely shades of green drape the solid black body of this monumental jardinière. A band of light screen scrollwork in relief decorates the top. This pottery, founded by brothers Paul and Everhard Mehlem, came into existence in the 1830’s. The brothers named the company after their father, Franz Anton Mehlem. After both brothers died, the company took on a new direction in 1875 as they took the lead in producing exquisite earthenware which more resembled finely decorated porcelain. This had been an unattainable goal that had been sought-after for generations. With the technical innovations of the time, the Royal Bonn factory led the way in this superior earthenware. This particular piece dates to between 1885 and 1890. It measures 10” tall and approximately 14” in diameter. It is clearly marked on the base with the Mehlem mark which was in use between 1885 and 1920. The date can be narrowed further, as the mark lacks the date “1775” which was added in 1890. This is in superb condition with no chips, cracks, flakes, or repairs. There is one small, tight hairline at the rim, but that is it’s only issue. There are a couple of firing lines on the interior, but they do not penetrate to the exterior, nor are they damage, as they occurred during the manufacture of the piece. Shipping weight: 13 lb. 7 oz. (Location: GD)

MEMBER: Majolica International Society

Item ID: RL040917