Amphora pottery, made in the late 1800's until the very early 1900's, was a short lived era of creative expression, featuring fantastic ceramic monsters, maidens, and elaborate gilded floral vases. Some of the Amphora creations resembled ethereal opium dreams with dripping glazes and melting forms. The pottery became popular in America when it was featured at the World's Fair in St Louis circa 1904.
Here is an interesting video that shows some interesting examples of the strange but beautiful Amphora pottery from Austria.
The vases included an array of wasps, abstract roses, thistles, clover, and mythical creatures. Paul Dachsel, who was one of the premier ceramic designers for Amphora, eventually left to start his own pottery. He crafted many vases that would enhance an Arts and Crafts home and made many, as did Amphora, that are so ahead of their time they would resonate with a contemporary decor.
Some ceramicists, like Josef Strnact and Julius Dressler, produced brightly glazed faience and majolica earthenware items. The style utilized a more unusual manipulation of the ceramic surface of their vases, flower pots and tobacco jars.
Alfred Stellmacher, who founded the Imperial and Royal Porcelain Factory in 1859, produced fanciful, sculptural creations noted for their fine design and quality. Many feature applied natural motifs, Mucha and Klimt-like portraits or simulated jewels.
Deep South Vintage Antique Ebay Shop ( @deepsouthc ) features a selection of Amphora vases
Leave a comment