European Ceramic Vases Appraisal

Pair of Ornate Continental Ceramic Vases

This is a pair of highly decorative ceramic vases, likely of continental European origin, possibly Italian or French, from the late 19th or early 20th century. Both vases feature a vibrant cobalt blue glaze contrasted with panels of creamy ivory or pale yellow, heavily adorned with raised, gilded, and hand-painted floral and scroll motifs. The taller vase on the left has an ovoid body, tapering to a narrower neck and a flared rim. It stands on three ornate, blue-glazed feet, and its shoulders are decorated with two applied, sculptural blue elements resembling stylized flowers or foliage. The painted patterns on its body consist of large, intricate scrollwork in gold and brown tones, interspersed with delicate pink flowers. The shorter vase on the right has a more globular body with a dramatically flared, scalloped rim and two prominent, C-scroll handles in cobalt blue. Its central section features a lighter ground with similar gilded and painted floral and scroll designs, including discernible pink blossoms. Both vases exhibit a glossy finish, characteristic of glazed ceramics. Visible condition issues include areas of wear to the gilding and possibly some crazing in the glaze, which is typical for items of this age. There might be some minor chips or cracks, particularly on the relief elements or rims, although these are not clearly discernible in the provided image. The craftsmanship appears to be commercial yet detailed, suggesting a factory production with hand-finishing, common in items from the Aesthetic Movement or similar revival styles. The overall aesthetic is one of opulence and intricate decoration. While no maker's marks are visible, the style is indicative of decorative ceramic art from that period.