Italian Majolica Istoriato Vases with Mythological and Biblical Scenes

A large pair of Italian Majolica Istoriato vases, 19th century,…
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A large pair of Italian Majolica istoriato vases, 19th century, both with handles formed as entwined snakes issuing from a mask, painted in colours with oval reserves, one vase depicting Tarquin and Lucretia and a battle scene verso, the other Coriolanus, Act V, scene III and a biblical scene verso, height 60 cm. Provenance: Bonhams, Sydney, 'Fairwater: The Collection of Sir Warwick and Lady Fairfax', 22 September 2019, lot 240. Private Collection, Sydney, acquired from the above

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  • Istoriato - Istoriato decoration is found on Italian Renaissance majolica ceramics. The term "istoriato" means "storytelling" in Italian, and the decoration typically features detailed scenes from history, mythology, or literature, often including multiple figures and elaborate backgrounds. The istoriato decoration technique involves painting the scene onto the surface of the ceramic piece using bright, vivid colors. The technique was developed in the early 16th century in Italy and was particularly popular in the cities of Urbino and Faenza.

    Istoriato ceramics were often produced as commissioned works for wealthy patrons, and were highly valued for their intricate design and narrative content. They were used for a variety of purposes, including serving dishes, decorative plates, and wall hangings.
  • Verso - Verso is the "back" side of a sheet of paper, art work, coin or medal. The front side is "recto".

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