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| The Victoria and Albert Museum |
In 1855, Thomas Kirby (1821-1890) painted this earthenware plate in enamel colors to replicate the style of Italian Renaissance maiolica. He has depicted traditional Renaissance grotesques around a profile bust of Queen Victoria.
That same year, the South Kensington Museum (now the V&A) was collecting maiolica from the Renaissance and purposefully purchased this then-contemporary piece by the Stoke-on-Trent (Staffordshire) artist to show the influence of the Italian Renaissance style on ceramics of the day.
Minton, during the Nineteenth Century, produced a wide range of wares inspired by Italian Renaissance painted tin-glazed earthenwares. These pieces were not copies of maiolica, but rather an homage to them with specifically Nineteenth Century themes.
One of a pair, this plaque was proudly displayed by Minton at the Paris Exhibition of 1855. The second plaque depicted the Empress Eugénie. It is now in the Swiss Cottage, Osborne House, Isle of Wight.
Thomas Kirby was employed by Mintons from 1841 until his death. He is thought to have painted the first piece of majolica produced by the firm.
2 comments:
Absolutely stunning! I love the Italian influence. This reminds me of the amazing tiles that were also produced by Minton in the 19th century. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful piece with us!
Minton was producing some exquisite stuff during this period. This particular painter is one of their best and, I think, my favorite. Thanks, Shawn!
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