Description
Portuguese Majolica Corn Motif Tureen with Matching Platter
José A. Cunha, Caldas da Rainha, Mid-20th Century
A charming and highly sculptural Portuguese majolica corn-form tureen and matching serving platter, produced by the workshop of José A. Cunha (successor to Viúva de Cunha) in Caldas da Rainha. This mid-20th-century example captures the naturalistic modeling and vibrant glazing for which the region is celebrated.
The tureen is fully rendered as an ear of corn, its surface deeply textured with maize kernels and trimmed with applied green husks. A three-dimensional corn cob finial crowns the lid, which lifts to reveal a cream-glazed interior. The piece sits on a green circular base that elevates the sculptural presence. The original platter is included"”an oval dish encircled with radiating husks and kernels in vivid yellow and Caldas green, completing the presentation.
Marked on the underside with the impressed JOSE A. CUNHA / LDᵃ VIUVA DE CUNHA / SUCCESSOR stamp and MADE IN PORTUGAL.
Measurements
Platter: 13.5" W × 10.5" D × 1.5" H
Tureen body: 13" W × 8" D × 9" H
Overall height with lid: 10" H
A delightful example of mid-century Portuguese majolica, ideal for collectors of Bordallo Pinheiro–school ceramics or for use as a whimsical table centerpiece.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Origin:
Portugal
Materials & Techniques:
Pottery
International: No International Shipping for this auction.
Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.
José A. Cunha, Caldas da Rainha, Mid-20th Century
A charming and highly sculptural Portuguese majolica corn-form tureen and matching serving platter, produced by the workshop of José A. Cunha (successor to Viúva de Cunha) in Caldas da Rainha. This mid-20th-century example captures the naturalistic modeling and vibrant glazing for which the region is celebrated.
The tureen is fully rendered as an ear of corn, its surface deeply textured with maize kernels and trimmed with applied green husks. A three-dimensional corn cob finial crowns the lid, which lifts to reveal a cream-glazed interior. The piece sits on a green circular base that elevates the sculptural presence. The original platter is included"”an oval dish encircled with radiating husks and kernels in vivid yellow and Caldas green, completing the presentation.
Marked on the underside with the impressed JOSE A. CUNHA / LDᵃ VIUVA DE CUNHA / SUCCESSOR stamp and MADE IN PORTUGAL.
Measurements
Platter: 13.5" W × 10.5" D × 1.5" H
Tureen body: 13" W × 8" D × 9" H
Overall height with lid: 10" H
A delightful example of mid-century Portuguese majolica, ideal for collectors of Bordallo Pinheiro–school ceramics or for use as a whimsical table centerpiece.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Origin:
Portugal
Materials & Techniques:
Pottery
International: No International Shipping for this auction.
Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.
Condition
Unknown; Some Imperfections; Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
Wear consistent with age and use.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Dimensions
10 x 13.5 x 10.5 in
Portuguese Majolica Corn Motif Tureen & Platter, by José A. Cunha
Estimate $950-$2,840
Starting Price
$600
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Objects & Interiors I
Aug 7, 2026, 4:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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