Ewer

Unknown

ca. 1550 · Lead-glazed earthenware inlaid with slip, with molded ornament · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

This ewer is one of the largest and most impressive examples of a low-fire white pottery made in France in the middle years of the sixteenth century. Known as Saint-Porchaire ware, this group of elaborate and often architectural pieces is distinguished by the complex interlace designs of colored clays inlaid into the cream-colored earthenware body. These wares were believed to have been produced in the town of Saint-Porchaire in western France, but a Paris origin has also been suggested due to their technical sophistication and the ambition of their designs.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1550

Medium

Lead-glazed earthenware inlaid with slip, with molded ornament

Culture

French, Saint-Porchaire or Paris

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917