Christopher Dresser for Minton pair of Celadon Jade Owl Vases.
 
Iconic, rare and beautiful matching pair of Christopher Dresser for Minton stylised owl form vases painted with rosehip buds and stylised foliage on a celadon jade background with gilt highlights  c1867.
 
Of exhibition quality, the flared conical baluster form vases are relief moulded with twin owl mask handles and bases modelled with talons painted with rosehip buds and foliage on an unusual vibrant celadon jade background.
 
The geometry of the stylised foliage follows the form of the vase beautifully and a most interesting botanical design feature of Dresser.
 
A similar owl vase painted with horse chestnuts and foliage on a pale yellow background is held at the Ashmolean Museum accession no. WA2020.18.
 
Condition: In outstanding untouched original condition throughout with no damage or restoration.  Both the painted decoration and gilding remain in amazing condition with no glaze craqueleure effect to detract.
 
Markings: Impressed marks Minton and date codes for 1867 with other serial monograms.
 
Date: Circa 1867.
 
Size: 19.5cm height.