Early 19th Century Wedgwood Egyptian Revival Rosso Antico Tea Pot

Description

A rosso antico teapot made by Wedgwood ca. 1810. The pot's red body is accentuated by black basalt details in … more A rosso antico teapot made by Wedgwood ca. 1810. The pot's red body is accentuated by black basalt details in the Egyptian Revival style.

This rosso antico teapot is a fine example of the Egyptian Revival style, popularized in Europe during Napoleon’s Egyptian campaign. It features sphinxes, owls, and canopic jars among other hieroglyphical motifs modeled in black basalt against a rosso antico background. Rosso antico, literally meaning ‘antique red,’ was developed by Josiah Wedgwood in the 1760s. It paid homage to the traditional red clay wares produced in Staffordshire during the 17th and 18th century as well as the even more ancient pottery being excavated from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Although rosso antico wares initially exhibited Classical designs, the factory was quick to encompass the Egyptian style in the early 19th century. The teapot is topped with a charming black basalt crocodile finial for a final touch of Egyptomania.

Dimensions: 8 1/8 in. L x 3 1/4 in. H (20.8 cm L x 8.8 cm H)
Condition: Excellent. Tiny nick to spout.

References:
Brooklyn Museum, 61.199.58
Chazen Museum of Art, 1991.163.1a-b
Victoria & Albert Museum, 2375&A-1901 & 28 to B-1904. less