As we continue to sail through Spring towards Summer I wanted to talk about a decorative accessory that’s been around for quite a while, Majolica. I have to be honest, I was not aware of the different kinds of Majolica when I started writing this post, I thought they were all the same. There is Italian Majolica and Victorian Majolica, let’s talk Victorian today and save the Italian Majolica for another time. Victorian Majolica was first originated by the British ceramics company, Mintons Ltd. and was first introduced in 1851 during the Great Exhibition. Majolica is known for it’s very natural elements depicting nature, wood and animals and is used a lot in English Country and French Country decorating. I’ve never owned an original piece of Majolica just copies, but I really admire the real thing and would like to have a piece or two ( or three or four…..). Majolica is very appropriate for this time of year, there are always lots of vegetable designs in majolica with cabbage leaves and vegetables being seen the most, as well as animals, especially rabbits and birds. Let’s take a look, Enjoy!!!
A 19th Century George Jones Majolica cheese dome.
Majolica Teapot by Christine Viennet
A great example of Majolica used as decoration.
A George Jones & Sons casserole dish with an elaborate forest scene, circa 1880.
An 1880 Majolica vase from T.J. Wheatley
A vintage Majolica platter.
A Century armoire filled with Wedgwood Green Majolica.
A 6 star Majolica Oyster Shell plate, circa 1890.
This asparagus jar is a great example of how vegetables are used in Majolica design.
English Majolica cheese stand and dome.
George Jones Wild Rose Majolica pitcher.
Majolica plates used as a decorative accessory.
Victorian Majolica Bird On A Nest vase by George Jones.
Jacob Petit Majolica lettuce form boxes from the mid-19th Century.