Monumental Fischer & Mieg Vienna-Style Cobalt Blue Porcelain Vase, 19th Century
- A Monumental Fischer & Mieg Vienna-Style Cobalt-Blue Porcelain Vase and Stand, Late 19th Century
- Bohemia, circa 1880–1900
- An exceptional and monumental late 19th-century Vienna-style porcelain vase and stand by Fischer & Mieg, distinguished by its magnificent cobalt-blue ground, elaborate gilt decoration, platinum-enriched handles, and finely executed figural paintings inspired by Richard Wagner's celebrated opera Lohengrin.
- Of impressive baluster form, the vase is richly decorated on both sides with finely painted romantic scenes drawn from medieval German folklore, likely depicting Lohengrin's Arrival (Ankunft) and Lohengrin's Farewell (Abschied). The detailed compositions feature figures in elaborate historical costumes, demonstrating the accomplished porcelain painting associated with the finest European decorative arts of the late 19th century.
- The brilliant cobalt-blue ground provides a striking contrast to the extensive gilt scrollwork and ornamental detailing. Particularly impressive are the elaborate platinum-enriched handles, terminating in sculptural ram's-head masks and surrounded by richly modeled decorative swags. The shoulder and lower body further enhance the vase's architectural presence.
- The vase rests upon a matching cylindrical porcelain pedestal, similarly decorated with intricate gilt scrollwork, creating an imposing overall composition measuring over 41 inches in height.
- The impressed F&M monogram identifies the manufacturer as Fischer & Mieg, the distinguished Bohemian porcelain firm celebrated for its finely decorated luxury porcelain and elaborate historicist designs.
- The painted subjects are believed to reference Richard Wagner's Lohengrin, first performed in Weimar in 1850 under the direction of Franz Liszt. Based on medieval German legend, the opera became one of Wagner's most celebrated works and provided inspiration for European decorative artists throughout the second half of the 19th century.
- An extraordinary example of late 19th-century European porcelain craftsmanship, combining monumental scale, sophisticated figural painting, lavish gilding, and an important literary and operatic subject.
- Impressed F&M monogram mark for Fischer & Mieg.
- Provenance: Christie's, New York, September 23, 1994, Lot 68. Christie's, New York, November 26, 2013, Lot 117. Private Collection, acquired at the above sale.
- 42" high
- Generally good antique condition, consistent with age. Minor wear to the gilding at the raised decorative surfaces, including a larger area of gilt wear to one ornamental boss at the upper section of the socle. One decorative swag beneath a ram's-head handle has been cracked in three places and subsequently reattached.More DetailsDimensions: Height: 42 in (106.68 cm)Diameter: 15 in (38.1 cm)Materials and Techniques: PorcelainPeriod: Mid-19th CenturyDate of Manufacture: 19th CenturyCondition: GoodWear consistent with age and use.Seller Location: Long Island City, NY, NYReference Number: 1stDibs: LU1798253072572
Period
Mid-19th Century
Height
42 in (106.68 cm)
Date of Manufacture
19th Century
Materials & Techniques
Porcelain
Condition
GoodWear consistent with age and use.
Price Range
◆
Price Range
◆ Under $5,000
◆ $5,000–$10,000
◆ $10,000–$25,000
◆ $25,000–$50,000
◆ $50,000–$100,000
◆ Over $100,000
