Large antique near pair of Royal Vienna porcelain vases

These very fine antiques were crafted in the late 19th century by the esteemed Royal Vienna Porcelain Manufactory.

These vases are unusual in their shape, featuring a tapering cylindrical body crowned with a tiered dome lid. The red, white, and black background is overlaid with striking gold gilt bands forming Greek meandros, cartouches, scrolls, and torches. The inclusion of foliate patterns adds a delicacy to the design that balances the geometric gilt detailing. Though the shape of the vases is near-identical, the designs bear slight differences.

Each vase features a frieze scene that wraps around the entire circumference. One vase is themed to ancient mythology, depicting a scene of the goddess Venus sleeping, Venus’s toilet, and Calypso. The other vase features reproductions of history paintings by acclaimed Swiss artist Angelika Kauffman (1741-1807), a founding member of the Royal Academy and society painter. They include a depiction of Thusnelda Crowning Hermann, as well as Elizabeth Woodville and Edward IV, though the latter is mistakenly labelled as King Charles V of England.

The Kauffman reproduction vase is signed ‘E. Mattheus 1804’, and both vases feature the Royal Vienna ‘beehive’ mark.

Blending exquisite craftsmanship with harmonious ornamentation, these remarkable vases make a captivating statement in any well-curated setting.