Title
A pair of simulated porphyry urns
Creator
Date
c. 1769 - 1780
Description
A pair of simulated porphyry lidded urns (English, 1769-1780) made by Wedgwood and Bentley. The tall cup shaped urns are composed of mottled green/blue glazed earthenware in imitation of porphyry, an expensive hardstone often used in antiquity. The bodies are centered by gilt oval classical medallions, flanked by tall gilt scroll handles with decorative masks at the bottom, the lids are surmounted by finials in the shape of draped sitting female figures. The urns are raised on square black basalt plinths. One of the bases has a Wedgewood & Bentley Etruria wafer mark.
Porphyry pieces would normally only be found in the homes of the elite. By creating a simulated version of the material, Wedgwood and Bentley offered pieces inspired by classical antiquity that were affordable for middle class consumers in the 18th century.
Porphyry pieces would normally only be found in the homes of the elite. By creating a simulated version of the material, Wedgwood and Bentley offered pieces inspired by classical antiquity that were affordable for middle class consumers in the 18th century.
Cultural Origin
English
Medium
earthenware
gilt metal
basalt
Extent
10.625" x 5.5" x 3.5"
Collection
Source
Bequest of Mrs. Henry D. Sharpe, 1985.
Identifier
PSNC.2770.1 - .2
For more information about this item, please contact its owning institution.