Large Nailsea Portland Shape Vase c1850

Description

Heading : 19^th century Nailsea style vase
Date : c1840-70
Period : Victorian
Origin : Unknown
Colour : Turquoise and white
Body : Twin rope claw handles with internal pulled up white trailing and a thickened rim.
Pontil : Plain
Glass Type : Lead
Size : 26cm tall and approximately 20cm in diameter
Condition : Excellent. no chips or cracks
Restoration : None
Weight : 1608 grams

The form is very similar to that of the Roman cameo glass Portland vase which went on display with the V&A in 1810 and lead to a resurgence of interest in neoclassicism. Numerous porcelain manufacturers made direct copies including Wedgwood. James Neale and Copeland during the first half of the 19th century although earlier copies are known.

The rope twist handles are typically mid 19th century when found on glassware and a little earlier for porcelain and earthenwares. This could be considered to be a ‘frigger’ an item made by an apprentice or trainee when the team that ran a glassmaking ‘chair’ were taking a break. Friggers are usually small items. this is not and therefore most probably made by the chair itself when commissioned to do so.