Late 19th Century Early Doulton Lambeth Agateware Bud Vase

Description

An early stoneware vase made by the Doulton Lambeth manufactory in 1885-1891, using an agate technique. This petite bud vase … more An early stoneware vase made by the Doulton Lambeth manufactory in 1885-1891, using an agate technique. This petite bud vase features a beautiful marble finish of tan-colored clays with machine-turned details, creating a rather modern silhouette.

Doulton Lambeth invented its Agate wares around 1886, using techniques developed from 18th-century Staffordshire potters. Agate ware’s marbling, such as can be seen on this vase, does not come from the glaze: multi-colored clays were kneaded together and, after throwing and turning the unfired clay on a lathe, the marbling effect was revealed. Because of their complicated and expensive manufacturing process, Doulton Lambeth’s Agate and Marqueterie wares were produced in limited quantities until around 1906, when the wares were ultimately discontinued despite general public appreciation for the pieces’ undisputable beauty. While most agate- and marqueterie wares were highly glazed to mimic a polished gemstone, this vase remains unglazed with a matte finish effect.

Dimensions: 6 in. H x approximately 3 in. at widest point (15.3 cm H x approximately 7.6 cm at widest point)

Condition: Excellent

References:
Eyles, Desmond and Louise Irvine. The Doulton Lambeth Wares. Somerset, England: Richard Dennis, 2002. Page 172.

Provenance:
Decorative Arts Christie's South Kensington, 17th October 1997, lot 2. less