A Fine Quality Circa 1890 Italian Neoclassical Revival pottery urn, with sgraffito palmettes in pink, cream, and black, on an iron base. Handmade vase aprox size 30 inch tall
This report is designed to provide a professional appraisal of the specific item requested. It contains a detailed description and evaluation of the item, as well as information about the valuation method used. The value given in this appraisal report is applicable only to the item in question and should not be interpreted as a general valuation for any similar items. Values for similar items can vary significantly, ranging from one hundred to one hundred thousand US dollars, depending on subtle details.
This report is intended to give the owner an appraisal of their item’s value, whether it is furniture, china, glassware, or any other type of antique or collectible item. The information provided will help the owner to understand their piece and its value. Furthermore, it provides an appraisal value in US dollars, as well as advice on how to proceed if the owner wishes to sell the item. It should be noted that this report is not intended to encourage the owner to sell their antique item; instead, it seeks to provide information on its value so that the owner can make an informed decision.
Description, identification, provenance reconstruction, age estimation, style and similar items used for comparison.
Identification
As a professional antique appraiser, identifying a specific antique item like the described circa 1890 Italian Neoclassical Revival pottery urn from a photograph involves a multifaceted approach. Initially, I examine the style and motifs in the design, such as the sgraffito palmettes, which are indicative of the neoclassical revival aesthetic that sought to hark back to the art and architecture of classical antiquity. The color palette of pink, cream, and black could also be a clue, as certain colors were favored or more available in specific periods due to the pigments and materials used at that time. The craftsmanship is scrutinized by assessing the intricacy and quality of the sgraffito work to determine if it aligns with the handiwork typical of fine Italian pottery from the late 19th century. Pottery techniques and the finish of the glaze could further suggest the urn’s age and origin. In addition, the iron base would be looked at for signs of period-appropriate methods of construction and any marks of wear or corrosion that are consistent with its purported age. Understanding the historical context is crucial, as this informs me about the cultural and economical factors of the period that may have influenced the urn's production. For an Italian piece, I would also consider whether the design elements align with known workshops or regions famous for such pottery. If the urn bears any markings, signatures, or hallmarks, these are meticulously compared to documented examples from databases, reference books, or archives. Furthermore, close attention is paid to the condition of the piece, looking for signs of wear, repairs, or restorations that are consistent with the age claimed. The size of the urn, at approximately 30 inches tall, is considered in conjunction with known typical dimensions for similar pieces. Lastly, provenance is researched, if available, to provide evidence of the urn's history and authenticity. The identification process is both an art and a science, requiring a deep understanding of art history, material science, and market trends. It is important to note that physical inspection is often crucial for verification, and a photograph can only serve as a preliminary assessment tool.
Provenance
As a professional antique appraiser presented with a photograph and title of a Fine Quality Circa 1890 Italian Neoclassical Revival pottery urn, my first step in determining its provenance would involve a detailed analysis of the design elements specific to the period and region noted. The Italian Neoclassical Revival style suggests a return to classical influences, evident in the urn's form and the sgraffito palmettes—a design technique whereby layers of color are scratched away to reveal contrasting backgrounds. These details strongly hint at Italian artistic traditions resurfacing in the late 19th century. The craftsmanship, including the quality of the sgraffito and the form of the urn, can be compared to documented works from that era and region. Historical context, such as the revival of classical styles during that time, would reinforce the urn's authenticity and period. Additionally, the iron base should conform to metalworking techniques and styles of the period, providing another avenue for verification. Existing documentation, if available, like previous sale records, maker's marks, or historical references in catalogs or databases, would greatly complement the physical assessment. Verifying provenance may also involve consulting with experts on Italian pottery, reviewing literature on period-specific decorative arts, and, if accessible, evaluating similar items from museum collections or past auctions. Lastly, modern scientific methods like thermoluminescence dating could provide confirmation of the age of the ceramic. The accumulated evidence—design, craftsmanship, historical context, and documentation—all contribute to a compelling narrative of the urn's origin, history, and ownership, establishing its provenance and value as an antique.
Age
As a professional appraiser tasked with determining the age of a fine quality circa 1890 Italian Neoclassical Revival pottery urn, I would employ a multi-faceted approach to evaluate its authenticity and origin. Firstly, I would closely examine the construction techniques and materials used; the style and execution of the sgraffito palmettes, characterized by incised designs, can often be indicative of specific time periods or regional artistic practices. Additionally, the color palette featuring pink, cream, and black would be assessed for consistency with pigments commonly employed during the late 19th century Italian pottery. The design elements would be scrutinized for adherence to Neoclassical motifs, such as symmetry and the usage of classical forms like palmettes, which underwent a revival in the 18th and 19th centuries, often as a nod to the grandeur of ancient Greece and Rome. I would also place this urn within the historical context, understanding that the Neoclassical Revival was a widespread European movement affecting various forms of decorative arts, which can help pinpoint the era in which it was most likely produced. The iron base, a less traditional choice for the period in question, might suggest a later addition or a unique design choice at the time of manufacture, and would prompt further investigation into its composition and construction. Lastly, I would thoroughly inspect the vase for any markings, signatures, foundry stamps, or inscriptions that could directly relate to a specific artist, manufacturer, or region, thus providing a more definitive dating or provenance. If present, documentation or provenance records accompanying the urn would be invaluable, as they can offer direct evidence of its history. In the absence of such documentation, I would compare the urn with cataloged examples from museums, auction records, and scholarly resources. Each of these factors and methods would contribute to a meticulous assessment of the urn's age, ensuring a well-supported appraisal of this stunning piece of Italian Neoclassical Revival craftsmanship.
Style
This exquisite Italian Neoclassical Revival pottery urn, dated circa 1890, is a testament to the resurgence of classical antiquity aesthetics that permeated European art and design during the late 19th century. The urn exhibits hallmark characteristics of the Neoclassical Revival movement, emulating ancient Greco-Roman artifacts through its elegant form and decorative motifs. The sgraffito technique—etching away the surface layer to reveal an underlying color—has been employed with great skill to create palmette designs, a motif ubiquitous in classical art symbolizing the fan of the palm leaf. These palmettes, presented in a sophisticated color palette of pink, cream, and black, reveal a controlled and refined approach to decoration, evoking the era's penchant for classical harmony and proportion. Crafted by hand, the urn would have been a labor of skill, requiring detailed knowledge of pottery and sgraffito. The choice of iron for the base suggests an intent for durability and stability, and imparts an industrial edge to the object, which may have been a subtle acknowledgment of the prevailing industrial advances of the period. Standing approximately 30 inches tall, the urn's scale is substantial, intended to make a visual statement within the domestic interior or perhaps a public space. The interplay between its traditional form, classical motifs, and the distinctive base highlights the eclecticism popular in the period's decorative arts. This piece not only embodies the aesthetic principles of the Italian Neoclassical Revival but also reflects the broader European cultural reengagement with the art forms of antiquity, serving as both a functional vessel and an artistic tribute to a bygone era.
Similar Items Used for Comparison Purposes
Comparable sales information, including prices realized at recent auctions or private sales of similar items
In order to provide an up-to-date estimate of the fair market value for the item, I utilized the data collected, including auction prices, private sale prices, and other relevant market information. This is crucial as it can be used in various contexts such as insurance, estate planning, and art market analysis. It also offers a valuable insight into how the valuation of the item may have changed due to environmental or economic factors.
The auction prices and private sale prices were a significant factor in determining the current market value of the item, as they are based on actual transactions between buyers and sellers in the market. As such, they are a strong indicator of the expected value of the piece in the near future. By analyzing auction results and private sale prices from the last 6 months, I was able to accurately determine the current fair market value of the item.
This approach provides a comprehensive view of how the value has changed over time and gives insight into any potential areas of appreciation or depreciation in its price. Additionally, it allows me to adjust my valuation as new auction prices and private sale prices become available.
Conclusion
This exquisite Italian Neoclassical Revival pottery urn, dated circa 1890, is a testament to the resurgence of classical antiquity aesthetics that permeated European art and design during the late 19th century. The urn exhibits hallmark characteristics of the Neoclassical Revival movement, emulating ancient Greco-Roman artifacts through its elegant form and decorative motifs. The sgraffito technique—etching away the surface layer to reveal an underlying color—has been employed with great skill to create palmette designs, a motif ubiquitous in classical art symbolizing the fan of the palm leaf. These palmettes, presented in a sophisticated color palette of pink, cream, and black, reveal a controlled and refined approach to decoration, evoking the era's penchant for classical harmony and proportion. Crafted by hand, the urn would have been a labor of skill, requiring detailed knowledge of pottery and sgraffito. The choice of iron for the base suggests an intent for durability and stability, and imparts an industrial edge to the object, which may have been a subtle acknowledgment of the prevailing industrial advances of the period. Standing approximately 30 inches tall, the urn's scale is substantial, intended to make a visual statement within the domestic interior or perhaps a public space. The interplay between its traditional form, classical motifs, and the distinctive base highlights the eclecticism popular in the period's decorative arts. This piece not only embodies the aesthetic principles of the Italian Neoclassical Revival but also reflects the broader European cultural reengagement with the art forms of antiquity, serving as both a functional vessel and an artistic tribute to a bygone era.
Appraisal Value ($)
$900
Appraisal Report made by:
Andrés Gómez
BSc, MSc, Expert Art Appraiser
10+ years of experience in online antique and collectible appraisals.
100k+ Customers Served.
Antique Store Owner.
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Discover the timeless elegance of neoclassical grandeur with this magnificent circa 1890 Italian Neoclassical Revival pottery urn. A treasure so rare, it whispers stories of a bygone era, now waiting to add a stately charm to your collection. This exquisite urn stands proudly at approximately 30 inches tall, its every inch a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship of the past. The skilled hands of Italian artisans have masterfully rendered sgraffito palmettes, adorning the urn in a delicate dance of pink, cream, and black. The ornate detailing recalls the opulence of ancient civilizations, reimagined through a 19th-century lens. Perfectly poised atop a robust iron base, it is a symphony of art and history that promises to be the crowning jewel of your space. Let your aesthetic be graced by the visual splendor of this hand-crafted masterpiece. This antique Italian urn is not just a decorative piece but a portal to an era where artistry reigned supreme. The subtlety of its hues, contrasted by the boldness of its design, makes this vessel a captivating focal point in any room. Imagine the soft, inviting colors of the pottery catching the light, a beacon of the past blending effortlessly with the present. Few objects carry the unique blend of rarity, elegance, and narrative quite like this. Embodying both the grandiose style and intimate detail of some of history's finest artisans, it is a piece destined to ignite conversation and admiration. Seize the opportunity to own a fragment of history—it's an investment in beauty, a heirloom that will continue to enchant for generations to come.
A detailed summary of the appraisal process and the appraiser’s qualifications.
Mark-to-market appraisal is a vital method for determining the current value of an item. This form of valuation requires an appraiser to consider various factors, such as market conditions, the condition and age of the item, and its rarity. By taking all these elements into account, a mark-to-market appraisal delivers an accurate assessment of an item’s current market value.
The item’s rarity, as determined by its availability and demand, is also considered in mark-to-market appraisal. Appraisers use this information to determine if the value of a piece is likely to increase or decrease over time. Additionally, they will inspect the condition of the item and note any signs of wear or damage that might affect its future resale value.
When performing mark-to-market appraisals, appraisers also consider market conditions by researching current market trends and comparable items that have recently sold. This information is used to provide an estimate of an item’s worth at that point in time. By considering all of these factors, mark-to-market appraisal is able to give a reliable indication of the current value of an item. This kind of valuation can also ensure fair prices are paid and received when buying or selling items.
In summary, mark-to-market appraisal is a crucial tool for determining the true value of an item, enabling buyers, sellers, and appraisers to make informed decisions regarding its worth. It takes into account multiple aspects to provide an accurate assessment of the current market value of an item. This information can be used to ensure that buyers and sellers are getting a fair price for the item, and that the appraiser’s valuation is up-to-date and reflective of current market conditions.
In the case of insurance replacement appraisals, mark-to-market appraisals can also be used to accurately estimate the cost of replacing a lost or damaged item. The current value, as determined by the appraisal, is then used to determine the amount that the insurance company will pay back to the policyholder. This way, policyholders can rest assured that they will receive an appropriate sum for any item that needs to be replaced due to accidental damage or theft. Additionally, this kind of valuation helps insurers ensure they are not being overcharged when items need to be replaced as part of a claim settlement.
The appraisal process is a thorough evaluation of the item or items in question. It involves researching and analyzing the information provided by the requester in order to provide an accurate estimate of its value. The appraiser takes into account factors such as condition, rarity, demand, and market prices. Photographs and detailed descriptions are especially important when providing an appraisal, since they help the appraiser identify any potential flaws or defects that could affect the item’s worth. By using all the resources that are available, an evaluation can be done quickly, efficiently, and with a high level of accuracy.
A statement of the appraiser’s liability and any potential conflicts of interest.
A qualified appraisal, also known as a formal written evaluation, is a professional assessment of the monetary value of an item by an individual who has specialized knowledge, expertise, and training in the field of appraisals. This person must meet certain educational and professional requirements, including experience in researching and evaluating items, as well as knowledge of the market and current market trends. The purpose of a qualified appraisal is to provide an objective and unbiased opinion of the value of an item for various purposes, including insurance claims, tax planning, estate planning, or to help determine a fair price for a sale or purchase.
We are committed to providing our clients with the most accurate and unbiased appraisal reports. To ensure impartiality, we adopt a flat rate, fixed fee structure for all appraisals, instead of a percentage-based fee. This eliminates any potential conflicts of interest between the appraiser and the final report value. Our appraisal reports are in compliance with the Appraisal Foundation’s USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) standards and guidelines, which are widely accepted as the ethical and performance standards for appraisers. This guarantees that our reports are of high quality and legally defensible.
