Spectacular pair of large naturalistic wall plates in polychrome glazed earthenware, made by Álvaro José in Caldas da Rainha, Portugal, in the early 20th century.
Measuring an impressive 32 cm (12.6 in) in diameter, each plate features an elaborate marine composition in high relief: one centred with a spider crab, the other with a spiny lobster, surrounded by mussels, shells and marine vegetation against a finely textured, sand-like ground. The borders are enriched with polychrome glazes in deep shades of green, blue, brown and ochre.
The quality and depth of the modelling are particularly striking. The crustaceans are treated almost as applied sculptures, with finely rendered shells, legs and antennae. The surrounding shells and vegetation further enhance the naturalistic character associated with the Palissy ware tradition of Caldas da Rainha.
Both plates bear the early impressed “Álvaro José – Caldas” mark on the reverse.
Together, the two plates form a particularly strong decorative ensemble.
Sold exclusively as a pair.
Technical Details
- Maker: Álvaro José
- Mark: impressed “Álvaro José – Caldas”
- Origin: Caldas da Rainha, Portugal
- Period: early 20th century
- Style: Palissy ware / Naturalistic
- Material: polychrome glazed earthenware
- Decoration: high-relief crustaceans, shells and marine vegetation
- Set: pair
- Subjects: spider crab and spiny lobster
- Display: wall plates with suspension holes to the reverse
Dimensions
- Diameter: 32 cm / 12.6 in each
- Weight: approximately 2 kg each
- Total weight: approximately 4 kg
Condition
Very good antique condition considering the complexity and pronounced relief of the decoration. Minor signs of age and irregularities inherent to the manufacturing process are present.
One leg of the spiny lobster has undergone a discreet restoration.
The photographs form an integral part of the condition description.
REF : NEB5860726
