Offered by Galerie Vauclair
This teapot shows a great freedom of inspiration compared to the Chinese models. A seated man with his body acting as a container and the head of the lid embraces a theatre mask with an angry expression spitting out the spout. The man's braid forms the handle. The dress is decorated with flowers inspired by Chinese and Japanese silk. The modeler has been able to render the exotic character, smiling bonhomie and humour of this fancy Oriental. From the second half of the 17th century, the importation of Chinese and Japanese statuettes had made their round silhouettes popular in Europe.
The turquoise of the dress is quite characteristic of Minton's productions. This English manufactory was founded in 1793 by Thomas Minton (1788-1836). In the early days, production was concentrated on the production of earthenware with blue and white printed decoration. In the 19th century, the factory experienced an unprecedented boom and its creations became the symbols of ceramics during the Victorian era. Each participation of Minton at the World's Fairs is marked by spectacular achievements. However, the manufacture has managed to keep its sense of humour by delivering amusing little pieces that enliven intimate receptions.