Images(10)

Urn-shaped vase with mask handles

Date1826-1838

Maker Tucker Porcelain Manufactory (1826-1838)

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

MediumHard-paste porcelain

DimensionsOH: 11 1/8"; OD: 8 1/2".

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Edna G. Tucker and Ms. Wendy S. Tucker in memory of Edward Bolton (Teddy) Tucker, M.B.E.

Object number2024-51

DescriptionUrn-shaped vase: square plinth rises to circular stepped trumpet-shaped foot with spool juncture that supports an urn-shaped container. A replaced threaded metal rod with washers, nut, and wingnut joins the stem and foot with the vase container. Two rectangular handles with Grecian mask terminals are applied horizontally to opposite sides of the lower portion of the vase container. The masked terminals are unglazed, but have been gilt. Traces of gilding on the top rim and lower portion of the vessel, the trunk and foot and the rectangular handle bails. The body of the vase painted in the round with two connected mountainous landscapes. One side painted with a seated toga and cloth-draped figure, back arched and leaning against a block or square-shaped rock, drinking from a stirrup cup in the figure’s proper right hand and loosely holding a spear (with ribbon-tied at one end) in the figure’s proper left hand. The other side is painted with a fence section beneath an overarching tree.
ProvenanceAccording to family tradition, originally purchased by Richard Jennings Tucker and his wife of New York and Bermuda or Robert and Sarah Tucker. Descended to Catharine Fitch Tucker [February 28,1879-August 22,1970] who gifted the piece to her neice, Joan Leonora Tucker Fowle [October 19, 1929-January 26, 2023], then it descended to Wendy Susan Tucker.