19th Century Parian Lion Head Jug

An unusual example of a mid 19th century Parian jug, it is very much in the classical style but not the typical high relief Victorian moulds most commonly found. This model reflects perfectly the smooth marble like texture Parian was intended to be and the figural lip also harks back to the marble carvings of classical subjects. (Parian-ware is unglazed porcelain developed in the first quarter of C19th to imitate marble and it took its name from the pure white marble of the Greek island of Paros.)

A trefoil mouth surmounted by a lions head which extends from the handle combined with the front legs and paws to either side of the lip, not only highly unusual but also aesthetically appealing. Combined with the bulbous squat form with thick belly the design pays homage to much earlier Grecian vessels of the 3rd and 4th centuries.

Condition is excellent, there are no issues to note or report.

Size: overall height is 17 cm the diameter at the belly is 13 cm (unpacked weight 462 gm).

This piece we consider to be from Minton around 1855, it is unmarked but its lip shape and body as well as colour, texture and modeling all are reminiscent of Minton output at this time, there are many indicators evident in the IVY jug of 1852 that are present in this rare jug.