19th-century Ornate Terracotta Urn

Item Description & Information

A late 19th-century ornate terracotta vase displaying a blend of Baroque and Neoclassical stylistic influences. Featuring a wide, flaring mouth and a bulbous body that tapers down to a substantial, squared pedestal base. The heavily distressed paintwork, which predominantly shows a faded, muted blue hue over a white or light undercoat, revealing significant patches of the reddish-brown natural terracotta beneath. The extensive chipping and flaking contribute to a strong sense of age and patination.

Flanking the body are two elaborate, scrolled handles that extend upwards and outwards, possibly terminating in animalistic or mythological forms. Below these handles, on the main body of the vase, are sculpted low-relief decorative motifs. While heavily worn, these appear to be classical faces or masks, possibly surrounded by stylized foliage or drapery. The lower section of the vase, above the pedestal, exhibits vertical fluting or reeding, adding to its architectural quality. The square pedestal base itself shows further signs of age and possibly remnants of other colours, such as a faded reddish-pink, indicating multiple layers of historical application and weathering.

The overall impression is one of weathered grandeur, suggesting its past use as a decorative or architectural ornament, or a significant interior accent piece that has been exposed to the elements or simply aged over time, giving it a rich, antiquarian character.

Measurements: 23 cm (H).

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