A pair of early eighteenth-century maiolica albarellos of characteristic waisted form, executed in tin-glazed earthenware. Decorated in a blue and white palette, each features an armorial motif of a rampant lion on a shield. In Iberian heraldry, the lion rampant (standing upright on its hind legs with forepaws raised) represents strength, courage, and high authority.
Length 9.5 cm · Width 9.5 cm · Height 21 cm
Maiolica refers not to an individual maker or workshop, but to a historic tradition of tin-glazed earthenware originating in Italy and spreading across Europe. Produced by numerous regional pottery centers from the Renaissance through the eighteenth century, these wares are characterized by opaque white glazes decorated with cobalt blue and polychrome enamels. Unsigned pieces like this apothecary albarello reflect the collaborative output of established ceramic workshops, which remain highly sought after by collectors of early European pottery.
Good condition for their age but see photos for crazing and throwing marks.
