Oval basin or dish with subject from Amadis of Gaul

Orazio Fontana

ca. 1559–64 · Maiolica (tin-glazed earthenware) · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

This basin is decorated with scenes from the chivalric tale of Amadis, who endured a number of trials in order to win his beloved princess, Oriana. Large serving dishes of this type would have been used communally, placed on the table within reach of several diners. In this case, the number and placement of the scenes suggest that it was intended to serve four, each with an image oriented in his or her direction.

Artist

Orazio Fontana

Date

ca. 1559–64

Medium

Maiolica (tin-glazed earthenware)

Culture

Italian, Urbino or possibly Turin

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Bequest of George Blumenthal, 1941