Old-Fashioned Majolica (sort of)

I have some majolica. It’s not old majolica which I think costs a billion dollars or so.

Mine came from TJMaxx about 10 years ago. All within a couple weeks.

You know how it is at TJMaxx. They’ll have a run of something and if you want some, you’d better get it right then.

I bought most of these pieces then and I haven’t seen it again.

Majolica is a very old style of decoration. What I have and what most of us are familiar with, is the victorian majolica that was popularized by English makers in the 1800’s. Originally, majolica was associated with Italian makers in the 15th century and was tin glazed pottery that often depicted historical scenes. The name was believed to be related to the island of Majorca where some of this Italian ware was made. As time went on Italian makers altered and changed the original style so much that majolica became simply associated with general Italian glazed wares. A revival of the style occurred in England by the Minton and Wedgewood companies most prominently. The victorians were enamoured of exploration and exotic locales. Natural history was all the rage. Explorers and their pictures, artifacts and lectures were hugely popular. Victorian themes often included plants, animals and birds. So, the revival of majolica is very prominently known for featuring these themes. When Queen Victoria died in 1901 the popularity of majolica died out and was replaced by art nouveau. Old patterns have been reproduced and these reproductions are what I have.

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It appealed to me for some reason when I saw it so I bought what I found those couple weeks. I think there might be another piece or two around but this is what I could locate easily.

It looks very pretty in the Fall because of the deep colors.

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The little pot with the owl on top is old, I inherited that from my mother-in-law.

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Given her age, I imagine it was made in the 40’s. The other pieces are heavier and this one is quite light, so likely cheaper. But, it is still very cute and fits the theme.

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Majolica is colorful and highly glazed. Frogs and lilypads were very popular themes.

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The frog pitcher with the flower stem handle is really pretty I think.

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Once again, this domed cheese plate has a lilypad theme.

I remember that there were some really large pieces that time but they were out of my price range. If I ever see it again though, I think I’ll add to my collection a bit.

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Some of the majolica I’ve seen would not appeal to me….bugs for example. But the frogs, flowers and butterflies are just fine with me!

Comments

  1. You are a master at setting up displays in your home. Lorraine! I love all your pieces, but the old piece with the cute owl on top is so darn cute!! I’ve got a biscuit jar that I take out for the holiday season.
    Vickie recently posted…Painting the town….green?My Profile

  2. I love it- whether it is old or new it is lovely. You are right-there is some majolica that I don’t care for either. Your vignette looks so nice! xo Diana
    Nana Diana recently posted…A Few Fall Things And A Glowing Burlap TreeMy Profile

  3. You have a lovely collection and your selection is the type I would like too. Some majolica is not appealing. What a beautiful fall display you have set up. The colors are perfect.
    That little owl is darling.
    hugs
    Celestina Marie recently posted…Changeable Serving TrayMy Profile

  4. Very pretty, Lorraine…I remember when you could find these pieces at TJ’s. The good old days! It is perfect for this time of year. I love that sweet little owl.
    Tina recently posted…The Overlook HotelMy Profile

  5. Pretty! I really lucked out and found a real piece at a little antique store years ago…I’m not sure they knew what it was. (pre-internet made deals easier to find.)
    kirby carespodi recently posted…Pumpkin Rerun! Easy-peasy, fun and sleazy!!My Profile

  6. What fun little collection! I do not have any majolica, but I have a friend who collects it. Thanks for giving me a little background on it!
    Danni@SiloHillFarm recently posted…HOW TO FREEZE PUMPKINMy Profile

  7. I know nothing about majolica, but I don’t want bugs either.
    Bliss recently posted…Fall Ya’ll Junkers Unite – Vignette, Pin Board and Link UpMy Profile

  8. Oh the wee owl is my favorite! A very spooktacular and Happy Halloween to you and yours!

  9. I’ve never heard of this before. Thanks for edumajolicating me!!!

    -andi
    Andi recently posted…the garage floor ~and~ philly shoots his hoseMy Profile

  10. Majolica is really quite interesting. My friend Jennifer has that same cheese dome. She doesn’t really like it. I think it is gorgeous!
    karen@somewhatquirky recently posted…A Fancy Little Coffee TableMy Profile

  11. Never heard of this before, but i have now idea about it. Thanx for elaborating.

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