Opulence in Blue: Mason's Ironstone Chinoiserie Vase

Object: Large Vase
Manufacturer: Mason's Ironstone
Origin: Staffordshire, England
Date: Circa 1835-1840
Medium: Ironstone China with Mazarine Blue Glaze, Relief Moulding, and Gilt Decoration
Dimensions: 22 1/2 inches high x 9 1/2 inches diameter.

This monumental English Ironstone vase is a striking example of the Chinoiserie style as interpreted by Mason's, one of the most prominent manufacturers of the durable Ironstone ceramic body. Its large, ovoid shape with a slender neck and flared rim is dramatically accentuated by a deep mazarine blue ground.

The vase is a triumph of maximalist design, featuring elaborate decoration that fuses Chinese-inspired motifs with European forms. The key decorative features include:

Dragon Handles: The neck is flanked by intricately sculpted dragon handles, highlighted in gold, which provide both an exotic touch and a sense of dynamic movement.

Gilt Relief Work: The surface is dominated by relief moulding"”a technique characteristic of Ironstone to mimic carved Chinese porcelain"”which depicts exotic birds perched on flowering branches and rockwork, interspersed with scattered butterflies. All these raised details are richly emphasized in gold.

The Mazarine Ground: The deep, intense mazarine blue glaze acts as a dramatic backdrop, making the bright gold relief ornamentation appear to leap from the surface. A simple floral garland band runs around the inner rim, providing a final touch of richness.

Historical Context: Ironstone and Exoticism

Patented in 1813 by Charles James Mason, Ironstone was a durable, hard-fired earthenware designed to compete with costly imported Chinese porcelain. The success of Mason's Ironstone lay in its ability to take these dense, rich glazes and heavy gilding.

By the 1830s and 1840s, when this vase was produced, the fashion for Japanning"”a style that imitated Asian lacquerware, often using black or deep blue grounds with bright gold details"”was at its height. This vase served as a lavish statement piece in the drawing rooms of the affluent, symbolizing both the owner's wealth and their taste for exotic, globally-inspired design.

Condition: Excellent.

References:

Godden, Geoffrey A., Mason's Patent Ironstone China (The definitive text on the factory's production and styles).

V&A Museum, London (Holds extensive collections of Mason's Ironstone, illustrating the range of Chinoiserie forms).

(Ref: VMNY3305B)


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent

Dimensions:
Height: 22.5 in.
Width: 9.5 in.
Depth: 9.5 in.

Category: Vases
Origin: United Kingdom
Materials: Gold, Ironstone
Creator: Brand: Mason's Ironstone; Designer: Mason's Ironstone

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Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Excellent