Description
This Wedgwood black jasperware plate is decorated with white relief work on a black ground and is set within a circular wooden frame and dates to the late 19th century, circa 1880.
The plate is of circular form and features an intricate composition with over 2,000 individual relief elements. At the centre is the classical scene of The Muses Watering Pegasus, with three female figures scantly clad in classical drapery, surrounding a winged horse. One of the muses is still half submerged in the river that surrounds them. Two standing muses raise water vessels up to the horse, the composition is surrounded by concentric bands of floral garlands, ribbon swags and repeating decorative motifs.
The plate is signed Wedgwood to the reverse, confirming its manufacture by the renowned English pottery. It is housed within a circular wooden frame with ebonised beading around the inner edge and a natural brown patina to the outer surface, providing contrast to the monochrome decoration of the plate.
A detailed example of late 19th century Wedgwood jasperware combining classical subject matter with precise relief work.
View the full Ceramics Collection.
MEASUREMENTS
Frame 36.5cm Diameter (14.4 Inch)
Plate 22cm Diameter (8.6 Inch)
CONDITION
Very Good antique condition
What is story of The Muses Watering Pegasus?
Pegasus, the winged horse, was closely associated with poetic inspiration, while the Muses were the nine goddesses of the arts and learning.
According to tradition, Pegasus created the sacred spring on Mount Helicon by striking the ground with his hoof, a source believed to inspire creativity. The Muses were said to gather at this spring, and scenes such as this represent the nurturing of artistic inspiration.
This theme became widely used in Neoclassical design, particularly by Wedgwood, where classical subjects were chosen for their association with learning, culture and refinement.
Who was Wedgwood?
Wedgwood was founded in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood in Staffordshire and quickly became one of the most important names in English ceramics. Known for combining technical innovation with classical design, Wedgwood developed new ceramic bodies including jasperware, which became one of the factory’s most recognisable productions.
Jasperware is distinguished by its matte finish and applied white relief decoration, often depicting scenes inspired by classical antiquity. These designs were influenced by ancient Greek and Roman art and became closely associated with the Neoclassical movement of the late 18th and 19th centuries.
By the 19th century, Wedgwood had established an international reputation, supplying ceramics to collectors, institutions and royal households. Pieces such as this reflect the continued production of classical subjects and the consistency of quality that defined Wedgwood throughout the period.
For further information see our Makers and Retailers profile on Wedgewood.
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